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"We are going away with our daughter this summer and we want to take a travel pram and a few other baby bits with us that we don't have ourselves but will need while we are away, is there any baby product rental companies you could recommend?" This is such a good question! It's so true that there are certain things you would rather have whilst away but maybe don't need day-to-day whilst at home. There is a company called Baboodle who we would recommend you check out. Baboodle offers flexible baby equipment rentals for UK parents and they have so many great products to rent for your trip including the Yoyo Babyzen which is perfect for travelling, baby carriers and so many other products. Renting baby equipment for your trip is so much more cost effective than buying the products that you may only use a handful of times. Definitely check out Baboodle and enjoy your trip!

"Can you share advice on nutrition during pregnancy? Thank you" Absolutely! Our Founder is a qualified Health Coach and nutrition during pregnancy is something she is incredibly passionate about, so this is a topic we discuss a lot! When you're pregnant, you want to make sure that you are eating a good balance of foods to ensure you are getting a good balance of nutrients and minerals for the growth and development of your baby, and to best support your body to facilitate this growth whilst remaining as healthy as possible. There is also a lot of research which now shows that a mother's nutrition throughout her pregnancy is linked with the health of her child throughout their life. Here are some important guidelines for nutrition throughout pregnancy: Eat a variety of foods: A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is important for providing the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. Folic Acid and Vitamin D: making sure you are taking Folic Acid and Vitamin D as recommended is important to support the healthy growth of your baby - a pregnancy multivitamin is what we suggest. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is important during pregnancy. Choose healthy sources of protein: Good sources of protein during pregnancy include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, tofu, and nuts. It's suggested that pregnant women should eat 2 portions of fish per week, one of which is oily but to avoid shark, swordfish and marlin. Get enough iron: Iron is important for the formation of red blood cells and to prevent anemia. Good sources of iron include lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans - taking a pregnancy multivitamin is a good way to ensure you are getting enough iron. Avoid certain foods: During pregnancy, it's important to avoid certain foods that can increase the risk of foodborne illness, such as raw or undercooked meats, fish with high levels of mercury, unpasteurized dairy products, and raw sprouts. Avoid alcohol and reduce your intake of caffeine. Download our free Pregnancy Nutrition Guide for a more in-depth guide on pregnancy nutrition.

"Please can you share any tips for potty training that you found useful? There's a lot of 'advice' online but none of it seems to be working for us." Potty training can be a challenging experience for both you and your little one. Every child is different so what works for one family may not work for another. However, here are some steps that helped us when we potty trained our toddlers which will hopefully help: Timing: Wait until your child is ready. Most children are ready between 18 months and 3 years of age, but every child is different. Signs that your child may be ready include showing interest in the potty, staying dry for longer periods of time, and communicating when they need to go. Introduce the potty: Introduce your child to the potty by letting them see you use it and explaining what it's for. You can also let your child sit on the potty with their clothes on to get used to it. Schedule: Set up a regular schedule for potty breaks, such as after meals or before bedtime. This will help your child get used to the routine and make it easier for them to learn. Positive reinforcement: Praise your child for their efforts and progress, even if they don't successfully use the potty at first. This will help encourage them to keep trying. Consistency: Be consistent with your approach and don't give up too quickly. It may take some time for your child to get the hang of it. Patience: Be patient with your child and try not to get frustrated if accidents happen. Remember that this is a learning process and your child is doing their best. Gradual transition: As your child becomes more comfortable with the potty, you can gradually transition them to underwear and encourage them to use the toilet instead of the potty. Remember, every child is different and potty training may take longer for some children than others. Be patient, stay positive, and celebrate your child's progress along the way.

"What are NCT classes? Do I need to do them before I have my son?" A prenatal NCT class is a type of antenatal class specifically designed for expectant mothers and partners to attend during pregnancy. These classes typically cover topics such as the physiology of pregnancy and birth, pain relief options during labour, coping mechanisms, breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and postnatal care for mother and baby. Prenatal NCT classes are intended to provide parents with information and support during pregnancy and childbirth, as well as to help them build a network of other parents going through similar experiences. The classes may be held in person or online. NCT classes are very popular and there are a number of different companies that offer them, this may vary depending on where you live. The NCT classes that we attended ourselves were the Bump & Baby Club classes which we would highly recommend. It is completely upto you whether you choose to attend an NCT class or not, we found them invaluable especially being first time parents and we made some great friends through the classes!

Welcoming a new bundle of joy into the world brings can bring immense happiness and fulfilment. However, being a new mum comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Amidst the joy of motherhood, it's crucial for new mums to prioritise themselves and some form of self-care. A happy mum is a happy baby. In this article, we'll explore some self-care practices that can empower new mums to navigate this transformative journey with a little self care in the mix, too. Even a few moments each day can have a huge impact on the overall wellbeing of new mums. 1. Embracing Rest and Sleep As a new mum, the first and foremost aspect of self-care is ensuring sufficient rest and sleep. With disrupted sleep patterns due to the baby's needs, it can be challenging to find time for rest. However, taking naps during the day when the baby sleeps (if you can) and seeking support from a partner or family member during the night can make a significant difference in rejuvenating the mind and body. 2. Nourishing Nutrition Maintaining a balanced diet is vital for new mums to regain their strength and energy. Ensuring a diverse and nutritious diet enriched with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support postpartum recovery and enhance overall well-being. 3. Staying Hydrated Breastfeeding and caring for a newborn can be physically demanding, leading to dehydration. New mums should prioritise drinking plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and to help support milk production if breast feeding. 4. Gentle Exercises Engaging in gentle exercises, such as postnatal yoga or walking, can aid in both physical and emotional recovery. These exercises promote flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and alleviate stress, all while providing some much-needed "me time." 5. Seeking Emotional Support The postpartum period can be emotionally overwhelming, and it's essential for new mums to have a support system they can rely on. Whether it's talking to a partner, a close friend, or joining a new mum's support group, sharing thoughts and feelings can be cathartic and reassuring. 6. Pampering Self-Care Rituals Taking time for self-care can work wonders for a new mum's well-being. Indulging in relaxing baths, skincare routines, or enjoying a good book can create moments of tranquility amidst the busy schedule of motherhood. 7. Embracing Imperfections It's essential for new mums to embrace the imperfections that come with motherhood. No one is a perfect parent, and it's okay to make mistakes and learn along the way. Being kind to oneself and letting go of unrealistic expectations can lead to a more fulfilling motherhood journey. 8. Connecting with Nature Spending time outdoors and connecting with nature can be incredibly rejuvenating for new mums. A simple walk in the park or sitting amidst greenery can provide a sense of calm and renewal. 9. Nurturing Hobbies and Interests Whether it's painting, cooking, or pursuing any other passion, dedicating time to activities that bring joy is an essential aspect of self-care. 10. Practicing Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness and meditation practices can help new mums reduce stress and anxiety. Taking a few minutes each day to be present in the moment and practice deep breathing can have a positive impact on overall mental health. 11. Building a Support Network Building connections with other new mums can provide a sense of community and understanding. Joining parenting groups or online forums can be valuable resources for sharing experiences and seeking advice. 12. Setting Boundaries Try to set boundaries to avoid burnout. Learning to say "no" when necessary and asking for help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. 13. Prioritising Sleep Quality sleep is essential for both physical and emotional well-being. New mums should try to create a conducive sleep environment and establish a bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. 14. Celebrating Achievements Every milestone, no matter how small, is an accomplishment worth celebrating. New mums should acknowledge their efforts and be proud of the care they provide for their little one. As a new mum embarks on this beautiful journey of motherhood, self-care becomes the cornerstone of her well-being. By nurturing oneself, a new mum can offer the best version of herself to her baby and family. Prioritising rest, nutrition, emotional support, and embracing imperfections are all essential steps to ensure a fulfilling and empowered motherhood experience. FAQs 1. How soon can I start exercising after giving birth? It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any postnatal exercise routine. Generally, gentle exercises like walking can be initiated within the first few weeks, but more intense workouts may require a few months of recovery. 2. Is it normal to feel overwhelmed as a new mum? Yes, feeling overwhelmed is a common experience for many new mums. It's crucial to seek emotional support and remember that it's okay to ask for help when needed. 3. Can self-care routines be adapted for busy schedules? Absolutely! Self-care can be personalised and adapted to fit any schedule. Even small moments of self-pampering can make a significant difference in well-being. 4. How can I connect with other new mums for support? Joining local parenting groups, online forums, or attending mother-baby classes are excellent ways to connect with other new mums and build a support network. 5. What can I do if I'm struggling with postpartum depression? If you're experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, it's crucial to reach out to your healthcare professional or counsellor who can provide the necessary support and guidance.

"Can you share your tips for travelling abroad with 2 under 2? We have our first trip as a 4 in a few weeks..!" Travelling abroad with two children under the age of two can seem challenging and a little overwhelming but here are some of our tips which will hopefully help! Our number 1 tip would be plan ahead: Make a detailed itinerary that includes your travel dates, flight details, accommodation arrangements, and a list of activities you want to do with your children at the destination you are heading to. Research child friendly activities, what the resort/city has to offer and what would keep your little ones entertained for an hour or so each day, whether that's a playground, kids club, stay and play at the hotel... We found having a well-planned schedule can help you to stay organised and make the most of your time abroad! Pack Wisely: Be strategic with your packing. Carry essentials like diapers, wipes, formula, snacks, and extra clothing in your carry-on bag. Don't forget to bring comfort items such as favourite toys or blankets to help your children feel secure and at ease during the journey. This moves into our next tip: Keep Essentials Handy: Have a well-stocked bag to hand with all the essentials easily accessible during travel days. Snacks, a couple of toys, books, activities to keep your children engaged and entertained during travel and downtime. Colouring books, and interactive games can be a lifesaver during long flights or car rides. Keeping essentials handy can help you handle unexpected situations quickly. Be Flexible: Understand that travelling with young children can be unpredictable. Be prepared to adjust your plans and try to let go of any expectations. Flexibility and patience will go a long way in ensuring a stress-free journey. Enjoy the Journey: Remember that travelling with your little ones is a precious opportunity to create lasting memories. Embrace the joy and wonder of exploring new places through their eyes and enjoy the journey together as a family.

"Have your little ones ever suffered with baby eczema and if so what did you use to help them?" Yes we have experienced eczema with our little ones and we know it's so difficult finding products that help! From our experience, we would really recommend Aveeno to help soothe eczema flare ups. Our experience was more mild eczema but we really found that Aveeno did help and made the eczema go away! Aveeno products are 'clinically proven to soothe & relieve very dry, itchy skin' and we can confirm this! Their Baby Dermexa range really helped our little ones and their eczema and is definitely worth a try. Aveeno Baby products are made from high quality oats to preserve their protective, moisturizing and soothing properties.

Trying to take some time to yourself can be a challenge, especially as a mum! Self care looks different for all of us and even 5 minutes of 'you time' can make all the difference. Here's our round up of some of the self care items we love at Carol for when you have a few minutes to yourself. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure to read the labels and instructions and seek advice from your midwife or GP about using new products. 1. We absolutely love the Kloris Sleep Patches (full write-up here), and can't recommend them enough to help you relax on an evening and to help with sleep! Sleep is so important for a healthy mind and we recommend checking them out if it's something you struggle with! 2. James Reed Overnight Face Tan - we are obsessed! This Sleep Face Mask gives you a subtle summer glow overnight using its stain-free gel! The gel is fragrance free, suitable for all skin tones and skin types and leaves you looking fresh and sun-kissed upon waking! 3. Bondi Sands Tanning Milk - this tan will make you feel glowy and sunkissed when you wake up. We love this product to give us a natural sunkissed glow and takes 5 minutes to apply! This is one of our hacks to feeling better throughout the summer months - let's be honest, who has time to sunbathe with little ones!! 4. Neom Organics London Wellbeing Essential Oil Blends Collection - adding Neom Organics Wellbeing Essential Oil collection to our baths is one of our favourite ways to give ourselves a little 'me time' amongst the chaos! These 100% Natural Fragrances for The Mind & Body are perfect to add to your wellness routine and are expertly blended to help you achieve better sleep, less stress, uplift your mood and increase your energy. 5. Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask - Putting on a face mask is one of our favourite ways to give ourself some 'me-time'! We love this Kiehl's mask! The Rare Earth deep more cleansing mask is an effective, deep-cleansing clay mask that absorbs excess oil and can be used on blemished areas to leave the skin more balanced.

Rituals Body Mask - £17 - We adore this Limited Edition Body Mask, it leaves your skin feeling nourished and soft. This 91% natural origin body mask contains both rhassoul clay and rose water to cleanse and restore tone and vitality to the skin. Extracted from the Atlas Mountains, this clay is known for its natural cleansing and detox powers. It's rich in minerals and helps to gently exfoliate the skin leaving it soft and silky smooth. Rose water is well known for its beauty properties, such as toning and anti-ageing benefits. Kora Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum - £68 - We are obsessed with this new product from Kora Organics! From our experience, retinol can be quite irritating to the skin and this retinol alternative is excellent! This serum has a milky texture that is gentle on the skin. It is powered by bakuchiol and alfalfa extract, two plant-based retinol alternatives that help target the visible signs of ageing, including reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles and boosting firmness. H&M Oversized Linen Shirt - £19.99 Linen everything, really! This shirt is easy to throw on top of a dress, bikini, with shorts - we love it! It also looks more expensive with it being oversized - it's a win from us! Augustinus Bader - The Rich Cream - £225 Incredibly hydrating, keeps skin soft and plump throughout the year and the changing seasons, a brilliant skin product! Supergoop! 100% Mineral Matte Screen Sunscreen SPF 40 £44.99 - We love the Supergoop! Mineral Matte Sunscreen for it's light coverage, mineral base and easy application! H&M 5 Pack Cotton Shorts - £14.99 - So comfortable for toddlers, these shorts wash really well, are affordable and last! They have many colour choices too. Kids White T-Shirts Pack of 10 - £17 - These t-shirts are great for the kids to throw on during summer. At such a good price point they are perfect for getting sandy and wet at the beach, by the pool or getting covered in ice-cream! They are a staple in our little ones summer wardrobe! They also wash well and last! Childs Farm Kids and Baby Sun Lotion Roll-On - £10 - This Roll-On SPF is great for kids with sensitive skin and eczema while still offering SPF 50 protection from the sun. It dries really quick, is super easy to apply and is an all round winner in our opinion!

"Is there a product you can recommend to help with cradle cap? Thank you!" For getting rid of cradle cap on your little one we would recommend the Kokoso Happy Scalp Cream and Baby Bath Brush. The Kokoso Happy Scalp Cream is made with organic coconut oil, aloe vera and celery seed extract which helps to soothe irritation, reduce sebum production and help to remove cradle cap. We would recommend using the Kokoso in the morning and evening for a couple of days and massaging it into your little ones scalp. The Baby Bath Brush helps to brush away cradle cap and we use it on baby's scalp once the happy scalp cream had been gently rubbed onto their head. The Baby Bath Brush is suer soft, made from food-grade silicone and is great for removing cradle cap!

If you're stuck for Father's Day Gift ideas, here's our round-up of the best gifts for Father's Day, from RITUALS. From luxurious gift sets to car fragrance, RITUALS have you covered. 'For showing you the ropes and always cheering you on – find your Dad the perfect token of appreciation this Father’s Day.' From invigorating body care to grooming essentials, RITUALS has small and large gift sets for every taste and budget. Choose from the Homme Collection, Homme Skincare, Sport Collection, Men's Fragrance and Beard Essentials, RITUALS is your one-stop shop for the Father's Day Gift you know he will love. From the RITUALS Homme Collection, our top picks are the Cleansing Foam (£13) and the Shaving Gel (£9.50) as well as the Invigorating Set (£27). From RITUALS: 'From the sporty Dads to the Dads who like to be groomed to perfection, we’ve got something for everyone. Even if you’ve left it a little late, we have next-day delivery gifts or for the perfect last-minute gift, go for an online gift card and let him pick the best Father’s Day gift for himself. Still need inspiration? Explore our favourites selection and find gifts that will create truly meaningful moments.'

At Carol we believe that parenting is a beautiful journey filled with love, care, and guidance. As parents ourselves, we understand the challenges and joys that come with raising children. In this guide, we aim to equip you with invaluable insights and effective strategies to become exceptional parents who foster the growth of happy and confident children. Remember that every child and parent is different, so ultimately you do what works best for you. Understanding the Foundations of Parenting Building Unbreakable Bonds with Your Child One of the fundamental aspects of successful parenting is establishing a strong emotional connection with your child. A secure attachment fosters trust and enables children to develop a healthy sense of self-worth. Spend quality time with your little ones, actively listen to them, and engage in meaningful conversations to nurture this bond. Instilling Positive Discipline Techniques Discipline is an essential part of parenting, but it should be focused on teaching and guiding rather than punishing. Utilise positive discipline techniques, such as setting clear boundaries, offering praise for good behaviour, and implementing logical consequences when necessary. By doing so, you will help your child understand the impact of their actions and foster responsible decision-making. Nurturing Your Child's Development Providing a Stimulating Environment A child's surroundings play a crucial role in their development. Create a safe and stimulating environment that encourages exploration and learning. Engage in activities that spark curiosity, such as reading together, playing educational games, and exposing them to various forms of art. Encouraging Physical Activity Physical activity is vital for a child's growth and overall well-being. Encourage regular exercise and outdoor play to support their physical development and boost their mood. Whether it's playing at the park, riding bikes, or participating in sports, keeping them active will contribute to their happiness and health. Fostering Emotional Intelligence Teaching Emotional Awareness Help your child recognise and express their emotions effectively. By teaching them to identify their feelings, you empower them to communicate their needs and navigate social interactions with confidence. Emphasize the importance of empathy, so they can understand and relate to others' emotions as well. Managing Stress and Anxiety As children encounter various challenges, it's crucial to equip them with coping mechanisms for managing stress and anxiety. Teach relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help them remain calm during difficult situations. Additionally, create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable discussing their worries and fears. Promoting Intellectual Growth Embracing Lifelong Learning As parents, we play a significant role in nurturing our children's thirst for knowledge. Encourage intellectual curiosity by exposing them to diverse subjects and experiences. Read books together, visit museums, attend workshops, and engage in thought-provoking discussions to stimulate their intellect and expand their horizons. Supporting Academic Endeavours Acknowledge and celebrate your child's academic achievements, no matter how big or small. Offer support when they encounter academic challenges and help them set realistic goals. By fostering a positive attitude towards learning, you cultivate a passion for education that will stay with them throughout their lives. Creating Strong Social Bonds Cultivating Healthy Friendships Social interactions are essential for a child's social and emotional development. Encourage healthy friendships by arranging playdates and social gatherings with peers. Teach them valuable social skills, such as effective communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution, which will lay the foundation for lasting relationships. Strengthening Family Bonds In today's fast-paced world, quality family time is more precious than ever. Engage in regular family activities, such as dinners together, game nights, or weekend outings. These shared experiences strengthen family bonds and create cherished memories that will shape your child's sense of belonging and security. Parenting is a journey that requires patience, love, and dedication. By focusing on building strong bonds, nurturing development, and providing a supportive environment, you can become the role model your child needs. At [Your Company Name], we are committed to empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to raise happy, confident, and well-adjusted children. Remember, being a great parent is a continuous learning process. By applying the principles outlined in this guide, you can create a nurturing and loving environment that sets your child on a path towards a happy and successful future. Parenthood is a remarkable journey, and at Carol we're here to support you every step of the way.