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and it's on sale! TENS Machines can provide some relief during the early stages of labour - we found it to be a great way to ease the pain in the early stages of labour so would recommend getting one if you think it may be for you but as always, please speak with your midwife or GP before purchasing a TENS machine to check whether it would be suitable for you. It's important to note that TENS machines can't be used if you suffer heart problems, have a heart pacemaker or suffer from epilepsy. How the TENS machine for labour works is that it provides tiny electric shocks to the body which interfere with pain messages being sent to the brain - hence why they can offer some pain relief in the early stages of labour! This portable TENS Machine provides a level of pain relief TENS machines generally attach to your back muscles by sticky patches which are then attached to the machine via thin wires - the pulses start off fairly light and you can increase them as you feel appropriate for you. Boots TENS Machine £36.80 - Save £9.20 (Was £46.00) - is the one we would recommend the most as not only is it the most affordable on the market (it currently has £9 off!) but we found it to be so easy to use. The Boots TENS unit comes with 2 different modes to be used throughout labour with the boost mode for use during contractions. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) works by preventing pain being passed into nerve fibres and by stimulating the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. How the Boots TENS unit works is 'at the onset of labour, apply the four pads to your back, as shown in the instruction leaflet. Switch the unit on. You will feel a pleasant pulsing sensation. This sensation will help to increase your production of endorphins. When experiencing a contraction, simply press the boost button for a surge of power to combat the pain. When the contraction ends, press the boost button again and the cycle will restart.' Batteries are included which makes the Boots TENS so much easier and so handy! We all know what it's like getting a new device that needs batteries only to realise you only have AA in a drawer somewhere and it needs AAA! (The Boots Portable TENS Machine can also be used to help with period pains so can be used more than just in labour!) It's also important to note that: TENS must not be used before the 37th week of pregnancy. If you are pregnant. do not place the electrodes over your abdomen. Do not use if you experience an allergic reaction to the electrodes. Do not place the electrodes on broken skin, varicose veins or recent scarring. Do not use whilst driving or operating heavy machinery. Do not use in the bath or shower. Keep out of reach of children.

"Can you share some tips for helping with sleep during pregnancy? I'm struggling to stay asleep!" Of course! We've all been there and it's so frustrating especially when you're exhausted but still seem to be awake numerous times during the night. Here are some tips that we found helpful. Remember to speak to your midwife/GP if you are struggling with sleep consistently as they will be able to provide guidance specifically for you. Sleep disturbances are common during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and anxieties about the upcoming arrival of a baby can all contribute to a disturbance in sleep. Some tips that helped us included: Creating a Comfortable Sleeping Environment One of the first steps to getting a good night's rest during pregnancy is to create a comfortable sleeping environment. Use pillows to support your growing belly, back, and legs. Consider using a pregnancy pillow or a body pillow to alleviate discomfort and provide extra support. Establish a Bedtime Routine Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Engage in relaxing activities before bed, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing gentle prenatal yoga or meditation. Avoid stimulating activities or screens, as the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep. Manage Your Fluid Intake During pregnancy, it's important to stay hydrated, but it's equally important to manage your fluid intake close to bedtime to minimise disruptions from frequent trips to the bathroom. Drink plenty of fluids earlier in the day and gradually reduce your intake as the evening approaches. Empty your bladder before going to bed to minimize the need to wake up during the night. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene Good sleep hygiene is essential for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality, and this holds true for pregnant women as well. Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Make your bedroom a sleep-friendly environment by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet. Find Comfortable Sleep Positions As your pregnancy progresses, finding a comfortable sleep position can become a challenge. Sleeping on your side, particularly the left side, is generally recommended during pregnancy as it improves blood flow to the baby and reduces the risk of complications. Experiment with different pillows and cushions to find a position that provides optimal comfort and support. Seek Relief for Discomfort Pregnancy can bring about various discomforts that can interfere with your ability to sleep. If you're experiencing back pain, consider using a pregnancy pillow to alleviate pressure and provide support. If heartburn is keeping you up at night, try elevating your upper body with extra pillows or consult your midwife for safe and effective remedies. Manage Stress and Anxiety Pregnancy can bring about a range of emotions, including stress and anxiety. These feelings can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or journaling to help calm your mind before bed. It's important to prioritise your sleep during pregnancy for the well-being of both you and your baby. These are some tips that worked for us, remember, if sleep disturbances persist or worsen, consult with your midwife for further guidance and support.

If you're looking for the perfect sneaker that's designer quality with every detail but at a lower price point, Oliver Cabell is for you! The Low 1, the most popular model from Oliver Cabell, is a clean and timeless classic sneaker that goes with any type of look. A classic, minimal white sneaker is a staple in our wardrobe. They can be thrown on with a dress, jeans, shorts and be worn in a range of climates and never go out of style. From taking your little one to the park, meeting friends for lunch or going for a stroll with your baby in their buggy, a minimal white sneaker is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. 'At Oliver Cabell we handmake luxury footwear using modern materials coupled with old-school techniques, then offer them to you, minus the markups.' Oliver Cabell has fostered relationships with manufacturers in the Marche region of Italy where they sell their products direct to consumer without the Retail Markup that top retail brands add to their pricing. Oliver Cabell focuses on making top quality products and selling directly to the consumer. Oliver Cabell offers the highest quality craftsmanship with a much lower price point than its' competitors. The Low 1 has a streamlined design that's classic and is the most well known product created by Oliver Cabell. The Low 1 is available in a range of colours and distressed style, although the all-white is our top pick! Major brands in our industry markup their products 8-10x the actual cost. We do things differently. To make luxury accessible, we've built relationships with the best manufacturers and sell directly to you. Basically, our sneakers are handcrafted with the same top materials and quality craftsmanship as other luxury brands but without the traditional markups.

Being a new mum can be overwhelming. It's a time of joy, love, and sleepless nights but it can also be a time of uncertainty, self-doubt, and isolation. That's why having mum friends is so important. They understand what you're going through because they are going through it too. And that sense of camaraderie and support can make all the difference in your motherhood journey, we've all been there. When you become a mum, your world changes. Suddenly, you have this tiny human to care for, and it's natural to feel a mix of emotions – excitement, happiness, but also anxiety and stress. Having mum friends can provide a sense of validation and reassurance. They can empathise with your struggles, share their own experiences, and offer advice and encouragement. They are there to remind you that you're not alone in this journey and that what you're feeling is normal. Mum friends also provide a sense of community. They become your tribe, your village. They are the ones who understand the challenges of motherhood – the sleepless nights, the endless diaper changes, the tantrums, and the never-ending to-do lists. They are there to cheer you on when your child reaches a new milestone and to lend a listening ear when you just need to vent. But mum friends are not just for emotional support. They can also be a practical resource. Need recommendations for a women's health physio? Wondering about the best buggy to buy? Looking for potty training tips? Mum friends have been there, done that, and can offer valuable insights and recommendations. They can share their knowledge and expertise, saving you time and effort in researching on your own. In addition to the emotional and practical support, mum friends also provide an opportunity for social interaction. Motherhood can be isolating, especially in the early days when you may be stuck at home with a newborn. Having mum friends allows you to connect with others who understand what you're going through and can relate to your experiences. Playdates, coffee meetups, and mum's nights out become not only a chance to bond with other mums but also a way to combat loneliness and create lasting friendships. So, how do you find mum friends? One way is through online communities and apps like Carol. Carol App bring mums together, creating a space where you can connect, share, and support each other. You can ask questions, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing that there are others who understand what you're going through. The Carol App offers a vibrant community of mums who are ready to uplift and celebrate each other. It's a place where loneliness becomes a thing of the past, and lifelong friendships are formed. Being a new mum is a beautiful and also a challenging journey. Having mum friends by your side can make the experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming. They provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. So, reach out, connect, and build those connections with other mums. Together, you can navigate the ups and downs of motherhood and create a village that uplifts and supports every mum. Download Carol for free on the App Store and join a community of like-minded mums who are ready to support each other and offer valuable advice. We're here for you, mamas!

"Is there a guide you used which gave a brief overview of a newborn feeding schedule and how it should look? Some tips are much appreciated! I know every baby is different but would appreciate a brief guide. A guide on all things newborn feeding really! New mum here :)" Absolutely! Every baby is different so you follow your own baby and their cues and do what works best for you both but we can share a feeding schedule that worked for us. As a new mum, one of the most important aspects of caring for your newborn is establishing a feeding schedule routine. In this guide, we will walk you through a typical newborn feeding schedule routine that we used when our little ones were newborn. 1. Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding: Both feeding methods have their advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on what works best for you and your baby. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits, including providing valuable antibodies and promoting bonding. If you do breastfeed, it's important to establish a breastfeeding routine, which usually involves feeding on demand especially in the earlier weeks. This means feeding your baby whenever they show signs of hunger, such as sucking on their hands, or making sucking noises. On the other hand, if you opt for bottle-feeding, you can follow a more structured feeding schedule, typically every 2-3 hours. 2. Newborn Feeding Cues: Understanding your baby's feeding cues is essential for ensuring they are fed when they're hungry. Some common feeding cues include lip smacking, sucking on hands or fingers, restlessness, and turning their head towards your breast or the bottle. 3. Frequency of Feeds: In the first few weeks, newborns typically need to be fed every 2-3 hours. This frequent feeding schedule is necessary because their stomachs are small, and breast milk or formula is easily digested. As your baby grows, their feeding intervals may gradually increase to every 3-4 hours. However, it's important to note that every baby is unique, and their feeding needs may vary. It's best to pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust their feeding schedule accordingly. 4. Nighttime Feeds: Newborns often need to be fed during the night as they feed every 2/3 hours. During the first few weeks, it's common for babies to wake up every 2-3 hours for feeds. To make nighttime feeds more manageable, consider creating a calm and comfortable environment where you will feed your baby. Dim the lights, keep the room temperature consistent, and minimise noise stimulation. It can also be helpful to have everything you need for nighttime feeds within easy reach, such as a bottle or breast pump, nappies, and muslins. 5. Burping: After each feed, it's important to burp your baby to prevent discomfort from trapped air. Gently hold your baby against your shoulder or sit them upright while supporting their head and neck. Gently pat or rub their back to stimulate burping. It's normal for babies to spit up a little during burping, so keep a muslin handy. 6. Signs of Fullness: Some signs that your baby is full include turning their head away from the breast or bottle, falling asleep, or releasing the nipple. It's important to respect these cues and not force your baby to continue feeding if they indicate they're full. 7. Growth Spurts: During the first few months, babies go through growth spurts, where they may seem hungrier and demand more frequent feeds. These growth spurts are a normal part of development and are essential for your baby's growth. During these periods, it's important to respond to your baby's increased hunger cues by feeding them more often and ensuring they receive adequate nutrition to support their growth. 8. Introducing Solid Foods: Around 6 months of age, your baby may be ready to start solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. Signs that your baby is ready for solid foods include sitting up with minimal support, showing interest in food, and being able to swallow with coordination. Begin by introducing small amounts of pureed fruits and vegetables, and gradually increase the variety and texture of foods as they grow. Remember, this is just a general guide, and every baby is unique. It's essential to follow your baby's cues and adjust the feeding schedule to meet their individual needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your baby's feeding habits. With time and practice, you'll become attuned to your baby's needs and establish a feeding routine that works best for both of you. You've got this! Establishing a feeding routine is an important part of caring for your baby and it will look different for every mum! Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, understanding your baby's cues, recognising signs of hunger and fullness, and creating a nurturing environment for feeding are key elements for success. Remember, be patient with yourself and your baby as you navigate this new chapter of motherhood. You're doing an amazing job, and with the support of the Carol App community, you'll have the resources and encouragement you need every step of the way.

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in a woman's body, both physically and emotionally. One significant aspect of this transformation is the fluctuation of hormones. Understanding these hormone changes is essential for expectant mums to navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy with confidence. In this article, we will delve into the various hormones involved in pregnancy and their effects on the body. 1. Oestrogen and Progesterone: The Dynamic Duo During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels soar to support the growth and development of the fetus. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy by promoting blood flow to the uterus, stimulating breast tissue growth, and supporting fetal organ development. Progesterone, on the other hand, helps to relax the uterine muscles, prevent premature contractions, and prepare the body for breastfeeding. 2. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): The Pregnancy Hormone hCG is produced by the placenta after implantation and is responsible for maintaining the production of oestrogen and progesterone during early pregnancy. It is also the hormone detected in pregnancy tests. This hormone plays a vital role in supporting the development of the placenta and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. 3. Relaxin: Loosening the Joints Relaxin is a hormone that increases during pregnancy, primarily produced by the ovaries and the placenta. Its main purpose is to relax and loosen the ligaments and joints in the pelvis to prepare for childbirth. However, relaxin can also affect other joints in the body, leading to increased flexibility and potential joint pain. 4. Prolactin: The Milk Maker Prolactin is responsible for stimulating milk production in the breasts. Its levels rise significantly during pregnancy and continue to increase after childbirth to support breastfeeding. Prolactin also contributes to the emotional bonding between mother and baby. 5. Oxytocin: The Love Hormone Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone" due to its role in promoting feelings of love, trust, and bonding. During pregnancy, oxytocin is involved in uterine contractions and plays a critical role in labour and breastfeeding. It also helps establish a strong mother-child bond. Hormone changes during pregnancy are complex and necessary to support the growth and development of the fetus, as well as prepare the mother's body for childbirth and breastfeeding. Understanding these hormone fluctuations can help expectant mothers navigate the physical and emotional challenges that come with pregnancy. By embracing the support of a community like Carol App, pregnant women can connect with other mothers, seek advice, and share their experiences. Together, we can celebrate the beauty of motherhood and provide the support needed to make this journey a joyous one.

We know that sleep is a vital time for your body and mind to rest and repair. But according to Mental Health UK, 1 in 5 adults in the UK don’t get enough sleep. As mums, we know that more often than not we aren't getting enough sleep. Either we're awake with our little ones feeding, nursing, soothing or perhaps you struggle to fall asleep even when your little ones are sleeping through. Switching off can be a challenge and when you get into bed your mind starts racing. Sound familiar? We've certainly been there. Health and wellbeing is a huge part of our DNA at Carol. By taking care of ourselves we can better take care of those around us. We recently came across the Cannabotech Beauty Sleep Drops and are so delighted to share them with you. We found them to be incredibly helpful with falling asleep as well as helping to reduce our stress levels! Founded by a team of Scientists and researchers, Cannabotech Beauty Sleep Drops are formulated with Chamomile Extract + Cannobotech's exclusive Blend of Functional Mushrooms (like Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps) & Premium CBD oil. The Beauty Sleep Drops also contain 5-HTP to help you destress before bed. Add 10 drops to your sleep routine around 1 hour before sleep and enjoy the benefits of a calm and relaxed bedtime. Good quality sleep helps support proper immune system function! Cannabotech also provide an excellent blog covering a range of topics from CBD, Functional Mushrooms and Wellness! Offering preventative care solutions, a wide range of CBD-based products including medicinal mushrooms, and with a holistic approach to health, Cannabotech is your place for Daily care products. Nourishing skin health from the inside out with their food supplements as well as topical creams, serums and skin products. Here are some tips for helping with sleep from Dr. Naomi, a chartered psychologist (PhD) and a qualified nutritionist (BSc) with over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. Plan a bedtime routine: Have a planned bedtime routine for weekdays and weekends. Think about what relaxes you before getting into bed, for example, some people like to have a warm bath to prepare them for sleep. This is actually supported by research that shows a warm bath 90 minutes before bed can improve the quality of your sleep. The reason for this is because warm water helps change your core temperature so that it drops, preparing your brain for sleep. Create a healthy sleep environment: Think about your surroundings - are they conducive to sleep? Blue light from your electronic devices is known to block the sleep hormone, melatonin, letting your brain know that it’s not time to sleep yet. Try red light, which stimulates the production of melatonin, helping to prepare your brain for better quality sleep. We really recommend trying a himalayan salt lamp for those night time feeds which helps you to fall back to sleep much easier after feeding Stay hydrated: Your body is made up of two-thirds water, so it’s no surprise that hydration plays a key role in helping your body function at its best, including when it comes to sleep. One study found that people who consistently slept for 6 or less hours per night were 16-59% more likely to be dehydrated than those who slept for 8 hours. A reason for this link between hydration and sleep may be due to the hormone, vasopressin. This is a hormone that controls your body’s water balance and is released late in the sleep cycle. So if you are not sleeping for long enough the release of this hormone may be disrupted. Be aware of your stress levels: Stress and anxiety often play a role in disturbing sleep. Research shows that genetics, family history of sleep disorders, living in a stressful environment and being female, all play a role in whether or not someone’s sleep is affected by stress levels. So what can you do to reduce stress before bedtime? This can be quite individual and you may have to try a few different suggestions before you find the solution that suits you best. Having a warm bath, creating a healthy sleep environment and staying hydrated are all a good start. Avoiding caffeine late in the day and not eating too close to bedtime are a good idea too. If you find that you are still struggling to manage your sleep and you are looking for a natural solution, check out Cannabotech’s Beauty Sleep Drops. These sleep drops are a blend of premium CBD oil, functional mushrooms, chamomile and 5-HTP to help you destress before bed. Add 10 drops to your sleep routine around 1 hour before sleep and enjoy the benefits of a calm and relaxed bedtime. Good quality sleep helps support proper immune system function! If you are concerned about your sleep, contact your GP. If you are taking medications, consult your GP before taking any new supplements, particularly if breastfeeding or pregnant. Use code SLEEP15 for 15% off your order! Some real reviews from Cannabotech Beauty Sleep Drops: "Really works. So happy I tried this. Been having trouble sleeping due to a lot of stress but this helps me get at least a couple of hours at night!" - Frederique, London "The Beauty Sleep Drops have been a game-changer and life saver in equal measures for me." - Marie L, Manchester

"Have you used a double pram? Is there one you would recommend that's good for travelling?" We were definitely part of the 'no way are we getting a double pram' crew, but when it came to it, they do make your life so much easier! There are so many different types of double prams on the market ranging from more budget friendly to premium so it really depends what you are looking to spend. We went with a more budget friendly double pram and we are glad we did! For the double pram we would recommend, it has to be the Joie Air Twin Double Buggy . At £175, the Joie Aire Twin Stroller has everything you would need in a double pram and is such an excellent price point! This double buggy is lightweight, easy to fold and is freestanding when folded, can be used from birth for your newborn baby as the seats lay fully flat and the seats are independent from one another so one seat can be laid flat and the other upright if you have a little one and a toddler. It's also great for travelling abroad! The Joie Aire Twin Stroller also feels sturdy and our little ones seem very comfortable in it! The basket under the seats is also very handy and a good size for fitting in what you need when out and about as well as the adjustable canopy for both seats. This double stroller is easy to use on Public transport as it fits through more doorways and isn't too wide compared with other double pushchairs! The Joie Aire Twin stroller is such a reasonable price for the functionality and quality and appears to be a comfortable ride for both little ones who are sitting in it! This double stroller is a smooth ride for little ones, has an adjustable canopy - both sun canopies are individual so you can have one down and the other up which is really handy if your youngest child is having a nap and the eldest isn't! The key features of the Joie Aire twin stroller is how easy it folds, that it can be used for a newborn baby and toddler at the same time, is an affordable price compared with other double strollers on the market and is ideal for parents of twins or parents of little ones whatever the age gap! It's not a heavy buggy like some out there and does offer loads of storage underneath the seats which is great if you head to the supermarket and can't carry the bags home and push the buggy! The Joie Aire Twin Stroller is easy to clean, is one of the best strollers for travel as it folds smaller than many others and stands up when folded so can be stored easily and at the affordable price of £175, is a no brainer for us. We would absolutely recommend the Joie Aire Twin!

"Can you please share any advice for preparing my older child for their sibling? I'm due in a few months and a bit worried how my older child will react!" Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting time, but it can also bring a mix of emotions for your older child. Introducing a new sibling requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a smooth transition and foster strong sibling bonds. As parents, you play a vital role in helping your older child adjust to the changes and embrace the new family dynamics with love and understanding.Here we provide strategies to prepare your older child emotionally, encourage sibling bonding, and navigate potential feelings of jealousy or adjustment issues. These are strategies that have worked for us, remember that every child is different so do what you feel is best for your child. 1. Open and Honest Communication Communication is the key to preparing your older child for the arrival of their new sibling. Engage in age-appropriate conversations, explaining that a new baby will soon be joining the family. Answer any questions your child may have and address any concerns they express. Reassure them of your love and attention, even with the arrival of the new baby. 2. Involve Your Child in Preparations Including your older child in the preparations for the new baby can create a sense of excitement and involvement. Allow them to help choose baby items, decorate the nursery, and pick out baby clothes. This involvement will make them feel valued and connected to the upcoming changes. 3. Share Positive Sibling Stories Share positive stories and experiences about having a sibling to help your child understand the joy of having a brother or sister. Talk about the special bond they will share and the fun they can have together as they grow up. 4. Read Books About Siblings Reading age-appropriate books about becoming a sibling can be an excellent way to introduce the idea to your child. Look for books that explore the emotions of older siblings, the role of a big brother or sister, and the joy of having a new baby in the family. 5. Spend Quality Time Together Prioritise one-on-one time with your older child to spend quality time together. Engage in activities they enjoy and make them feel special during this period of change. This quality time will reassure them of your love and attention. 6. Involve Them in Baby Care Once the baby arrives, involve your older child in age-appropriate baby care tasks. They can help with simple tasks such as fetching nappies and wipes, singing lullabies, or rocking the baby gently. This involvement will foster a sense of responsibility and ownership in their new role as a big brother or sister. 7. Monitor and Address Jealousy Jealousy is a natural emotion when a new sibling arrives. Be attentive to signs of jealousy in your older child and address their feelings with empathy and understanding. Reassure them that their feelings are valid and provide extra love and attention during this time. Preparing your older child for a new sibling is an essential part of ensuring a smooth family transition. By communicating openly, involving your child in preparations, and nurturing their emotions, you can lay the foundation for a strong and loving sibling bond. Remember, each child's adjustment process is unique, so be patient and provide support as they navigate this exciting new chapter in their lives.

We often get asked by our community what sleepwear brand we would recommend for babies and we always recommend Love To Dream™. The SWADDLE UP is such a game changer for parents as it allows baby to sleep with their arms up whilst also providing the swaddle feeling. An absolute must-have for our babies who all preferred sleeping in their favourite 'arms up' position which no other sleep suit comfortably enabled them to do whilst still being swaddled! The Swaddle Up combines all the benefits of a traditional swaddle with the safety of a sleepsuit! Traditional Swaddling, flexion for hips, two-way zip, arms up position, hip-healthy design, breathable fabric- this really is the baby swaddle with it all! The unique ARMS UP™ design of SWADDLE UP™ replicates baby's behaviour in the womb, this natural position allows them to place their hands to the mouth for true SELF-SOOTHING™. Self-soothing behaviours, where babies learn how to self regulate their emotional state, are often developed from birth and help to foster independence throughout a child’s normal stages of development. Not only this, but the SWADDLE UP also has a double-sided zip which enables you to change your baby's nappy without having to take off the whole swaddle - another brilliant feature that definitely makes those middle-of-the-night nappy changes much smoother! Love To Dream™, is the global sleepwear brand that is loved and trusted by millions and millions of parents around the world and is now available at John Lewis, further expanding the brands retail footprint in the UK and making it even easier and more accessible for parents to easily access a tried and trusted sleep solution. John Lewis are now stocking key global, best-sellers Swaddle Up™ and Swaddle Up™ Transition Bags and Suits in Original, Limited Editions prints and recently launched All Seasons Swaddle Up™. Love to Dream’s patented, SWADDLE UP™, helps baby to safely settle quickly & establish a peaceful sleep routine. Swaddle Up™ can be used from birth through to when baby starts to transition to independent sleep. Medical research has shown that when babies can self-soothe, they can sleep for longer. A baby who establishes a healthy sleep routine and can settle themselves back to sleep is a baby who doesn’t have to wake up mum and dad, better and longer sleep for everyone. Swaddle Up™ is easy and convenient for parents and carers and has been described by many as both a “lifesaver” and a “gamechanger”, which we can confirm! About LOVE TO DREAM™ "Since our early beginnings in 2009, our mission has remained the same; to help parents and families around the world achieve better sleep. We believe today’s little dreamers are the shapers of tomorrow. We exist to celebrate the power of sleep and dreams to brighten the world – one little dreamer at a time." "Love To Dream™ have swaddled millions and millions of babies globally. The Swaddle Up™ Original range of products has very recently won three Made For Mums Awards and we are super proud that we have been recognized as a parenting essential and a game changer when it comes to Newborn sleep. Love to Dream™ Organic Sleep Bag in White Stellar, another very popular “all seasons” product has just been listed for a fourth Award." For more information, you can find the FAQ's about the Love To Dream SWADDLE UP here

"Any activities you can suggest for keeping my toddler entertained at home during the school holidays? Ideally not expensive and not too messy!" Of course! Although school holidays provide a wonderful opportunity for parents to spend quality time with their toddlers, it's exhausting. In this article, we'll explore a variety of exciting at-home activities that are perfect for toddlers during school holidays that are tried and tested by us and that don't cost much if anything. Engaging in fun and educational activities at home can not only keep your little ones entertained but also promote their cognitive, social, and motor skills development. Hopefully this gives you some ideas! 1. Arts and Crafts Let your toddler unleash their creativity with arts and crafts projects. Gather some child-friendly art supplies like washable paints, crayons, coloured papers, glue, and child-safe scissors. Encourage them to draw, paint, and create to their heart's content. You can even turn this into a themed activity by focusing on seasons, animals, or their favourite storybook characters. A huge win in our house is creating anything 'Paw Patrol' related! 2. Sensory Play Sensation Sensory play is not only entertaining but also essential for a child's cognitive development. Create sensory bins using materials like rice, beans, sand, or water. Add in some child-safe toys, scoops, and containers. Let your toddler explore the different textures and sensations, which can help enhance their fine motor skills and sensory awareness. You can do this in mixing bowls or a washing up bowl! 3. Indoor Picnic Adventure Transform your living room into an indoor picnic spot. Lay out a picnic blanket, and prepare some toddler-friendly snacks and finger foods. Engage in pretend play by encouraging your child to "pack" their picnic basket and "travel" to their favourite imaginary destination. This activity will surely spark their imagination and make mealtime more exciting. 4. Storytelling Reading is a fantastic way to bond with your toddler and introduce them to the wonderful world of stories. Set up a cozy reading corner with soft cushions and a collection of age-appropriate books. Read aloud to your child using different voices and expressions to make the storytelling experience more engaging. You can also encourage them to retell their favourite stories in their own words. 5. Nature Scavenger Hunt If you have a garden or a nearby park, organise a nature scavenger hunt for your little one. Create a list of items they need to find, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, and insects. This activity not only encourages physical activity but also allows your child to explore the natural world around them, fostering their curiosity about the environment. 6. DIY Musical Instruments Get creative and make homemade musical instruments with everyday household items. You can use empty containers as drums, fill bottles with different levels of water to create a xylophone, or make shakers using rice or beans. Have a jamming session with your toddler and explore the joy of making music together. 7. Kitchen Little Chefs Involve your toddler in simple cooking and baking activities. Let them assist in mixing, pouring, and decorating. Making easy recipes like cookies, sandwiches, or fruit salads can be a lot of fun and an opportunity to teach basic math and measurement concepts. 8. Dress-Up Playtime Encourage imaginative play by setting up a dress-up corner with various costumes and props. Whether it's pretending to be a superhero, a princess, or an animal, dress-up play allows toddlers to explore different roles and develop their creativity. 9. Colour Sorting and Matching Use colourful objects like building blocks, toys, or buttons to engage your toddler in colour sorting and matching games. This activity helps improve their colour recognition and cognitive skills while keeping them entertained. 10. Dance Party Bash Put on some lively music and have a dance party in your living room. Toddlers love moving to the beat, and dancing is an excellent way to keep them active and energetic during the holidays. Hopefully these ideas have helped. Remember, the most crucial aspect of these activities is spending quality time with your little one and making the most of these precious moments together.

"Any tips for starting to potty train? My son is almost 3 and really think he's ready." Potty training is a significant milestone in a toddler's life and while it may seem daunting, with the right approach and patience, it can be a smooth and successful process. In this article, we will explore some of the practical tips and strategies that worked for us to make potty training a positive and stress-free experience for both parents and toddlers. Understanding Readiness Before embarking on the potty training journey, it's crucial to recognise signs of readiness in your toddler. Look for cues like staying dry for more extended periods, showing interest in using the potty, and communicating about their bathroom needs. Every child is different, so be patient and wait until they display readiness indicators. Preparing for the Journey 1. Choosing the Right Equipment Invest in a comfortable and child-friendly potty chair or a potty seat that fits securely on the regular toilet. Let your child pick a design they like to make it more appealing and exciting. 2. Establishing a Routine Create a consistent potty schedule. Encourage your child to sit on the potty chair at regular intervals, such as after meals or upon waking up. Consistency will help them get accustomed to the process. 3. Stock Up on Supplies Have an ample supply of training pants, wipes, and hand soap readily available. The Potty Training Process 4. Introducing the Concept Explain to your child what potty training is and why it is essential. Use simple language they can understand, and make it a positive and exciting topic. 5. Demonstration Children learn by observing. Consider showing them how to use the potty, either through role-playing or allowing them to watch an older sibling or parent. 6. Using Positive Reinforcement Praise your child for any effort they make, even if they don't succeed immediately. Positive reinforcement will boost their confidence and encourage them to keep trying. 7. Say Goodbye to Nappies Once you begin potty training, commit to it. Avoid going back to nappies during the day, as it can confuse the child and slow down progress. This one was a big tip that worked for us! Overcoming Challenges 8. Dealing with Accidents Accidents are a natural part of the process. Stay calm and reassure your little one that accidents happen and encourage them to try again. 9. Nighttime Training Nighttime training might take longer than daytime. Limit liquid intake before bedtime, and be patient as your child learns to wake up to use the potty. Celebrate Milestones 10. First Successes Celebrate the first few successful attempts at using the potty. Applaud their achievement and make it a special moment for them. 11. Transition to Big Kid Underwear When your child is consistently using the potty during the day, consider transitioning to regular underwear. This step can excite them and give them a sense of accomplishment. Potty training is a significant milestone for toddlers, and it requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement from parents. Understanding their readiness, creating a routine, and using positive reinforcement are essential steps in this journey. Remember to be patient, as each child's pace is unique. With time and support, your child will successfully transition from nappies to using the potty. Good luck mama!