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  • The Review - Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

    the award winning budget friendly compact travel cot boasts over 5,000 4.7* reviews and for good reason. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot - £37 Why the Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot is a Game-Changer When you're a new mum, the items you choose for your little one can make all the difference. It's all about finding products that offer safety, functionality, and convenience. That's where the Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot comes into play, standing out as a must-have accessory for today's busy mum. There are a range of travel cots on the market, but the Red Kite is the perfect travel companion and one of the top parent-approved budget options, for good reason. Priced at just £37, this travel cot is much more affordable than the majority of baby travel cots on the market and is an amazing price. The Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot is a godsend to parents who value versatility. It's not just a cot, but a safe space that adapts to the various stages of your child’s infancy. It's a lightweight travel cot, making it ideal for travel or use as a portable naptime location in your home. Its robust design ensures it stands up to use over time, and the mesh sides allow for optimum ventilation and visibility, so you can keep an eye on your little one at all times. It's an excellent portable sleep space alternative. This travel cot has a minimalist design, is a pop-up travel cot that is very easy to assemble, takes up minimal boot space and is an all-in-one design. Comfort is another advantage of this travel cot. The padded top rails and included mattress ensure that your child enjoys maximum comfort whether they’re sleeping or playing. Even better, it has easy-to-use folding and unfolding mechanisms, making setup and storage a breeze. The compact travel cot, padded mattress and lightweight design are a few of the many reasons why we love the Red Kite travel cot. It is excellent for overnight stays, weekends away and is the perfect travel companion. The design of the Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot is also worth mentioning. Its sleek, black exterior fits seamlessly into any home decor, offering a stylish alternative to traditional baby equipment. The Red Kite doesn't have a drop-down side, but the mesh sides mean that you can keep an eye on your little one with ease. Weighing 7kg, the Red Kite carry cot folds down into a small rectangle shape and comes with a carry bag, making it easy to carry around and store. The compact travel cot is also easy to clean and just needs wiping down with warm water to clean. In essence, the Red Kite Black Sleep Light Travel Cot provides convenience for parents without compromising the comfort and safety of your child. It's a practical, stylish, and versatile solution for new mums juggling the demands of parenthood. The comfortable mattress, mesh sides, easy to assemble all-in-one lightweight travel cot by Red Kite is highly recommended! "The Sleeptight Travel Cot is an award-winning sleep solution from Red Kite. Stored in a carry bag, the Sleeptight Travel Cot is lightweight and compact folding it is the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home. Suitable from birth, the cot is supplied with padded mattress for comfort, has a central locking base for extra safety and as an added benefit; the side panels are see-through mesh, giving you an easy view of the child...The mattress is firm on one side, in five sections, and has warnings and instructions printed on it." Budget travel cot review, cheapest travel cot, benefits of travel cots, built-in-mattress.

  • Newborn Baby Care for New Mums

    Advice that helped us! At Carol App, we understand that being a new mum can be overwhelming especially when you arrive home from hospital with your newborn and are trying to figure it out. These are some basic tips that helped us when we first had our babies and that may also help you. Remember that every baby is different, always listen to your intuition and do what's right for you and your baby. Every mum's journey is different. Feeding your Newborn During the first few months of your newborn's life, nutrition is their main priority. Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or both, remember that every baby is different, and there's no specific set schedule. Typically, newborns need to be fed every 2-3 hours, but absolutely feed on demand if your little one is hungry more often than this. Newborn Sleep: Quality and Quantity Newborn babies sleep a lot, typically up to seventeen hours a day, but each baby is unique. To help them sleep comfortably, make sure the environment is calm and quiet and maintain a regular bedtime routine- we found that creating some kind of bedtime routine from early on really helped with getting our babies to sleep longer stretches at night from 4 months+. You could start to incorporate a baby bath after the first few weeks once the umbilical cord stump has fallen off (the umbilical cord stump usually falls off between 5-15 days after birth) as recommended by your midwife, to help establish some kind of bedtime routine, ensuring you keep your baby warm and comfortable when putting them down to sleep. It's important to remember to only bathe your newborn in plain water and warm water (not too warm) for the first month or so as they have such delicate skin which is sensitive. One to two times per week for bathing newborns is plenty as bathing your newborn too frequently can lead to dry skin or eczema. Understanding Togs and Layers for Newborn Clothing When it comes to clothing your newborn, comfort and safety come first. Knowing The term 'tog' stands for thermal resistance and measures the warmth of a baby's sleeping bag. The higher the tog, the warmer it is. Sleep layers, on the other hand, refer to the layers of clothing your baby has on under the sleeping bag. As a rule, the combined tog rating and layers should equal the room temperature. For example, in a room heated to 20°C, a 2.5 tog sleeping bag and a long-sleeved bodysuit would be appropriate. Read More: Our Favourite Baby Sleep Suit! Always remember that your intuition is powerful. Trust in yourself, and know that you're doing an amazing job. You aren't alone in this journey. For more advice and tips, keep visiting us at Carol App. We're here to support you on this incredible journey!

  • Getting Better Sleep in Pregnancy

    Throughout Pregnancy, mums often struggle with their sleep. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and anxieties about the upcoming arrival of a baby can all contribute to sleep disturbances during pregnancy. However, with a few simple tips, you can start to improve your sleep quality and ensure you are well-rested throughout your pregnancy. Create 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 strategically to support your growing belly, back, and legs. Consider using a pregnancy pillow or a body pillow to alleviate discomfort and provide extra support. Try to avoid having ceiling lights on close to bedtime and opt for a lamp instead. 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 - we've all been there! 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 minimise 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 support belt or 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 healthcare provider 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 meditation or journaling to help calm your mind before bed. It's important to prioritise your sleep during pregnancy for the wellbeing of both you and your baby. By making sleep a priority, you can increase your chances of getting a good night's rest and enjoy a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy journey. Remember, if sleep disturbances persist or worsen, consult with your GP/Midwife for further guidance and support.

  • Carol Recommends - Orange County CBD Collagen Face Cream

    'Better than Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream!' Products containing CBD are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Loved by customers worldwide, the Orange County CBD Collagen Face Cream (£30) carries the perfect balance between a balancing daily moisturiser and a good quality CBD infusion.'It’s AMAZING! (It’s better than Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream in my opinion)' one happy customer claims! This naturally fast absorbing formulation ensures you get targeted delivery exactly where its needed. This organic, vegan face cream is great for everyday use. Due to its carefully selected ingredients it can help to support skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and other sensitive skin conditions. This product offers a truly gentle cream known for its natural healing effects and smooth feeling. With the Collagen Cream, not only are you getting a high dose of quality CBD to nourish your skin, you are also getting a series of hand selected essential oils and natural ingredients to provide support for healthy moisturised skin. Collagen, which is one of the main ingredients in the cream is known to help slow the rate of water loss from the skin which helps to keep it supple. This is further supported through the use of Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract which helps to make skin softer and more elastic. Ginseng, Lavender and Chamomile are all known for their anti-inflammatory properties which help to calm the skin and reduce redness. The antioxidant properties of these ingredients also helps to balance oil production without the use of synthetic compounds. The formulation contains 350mg of the Orange County CBD award winning CBD. Extracted using a specialist CO2 process developed to isolate and remove any unwanted compounds, while creating the maximum potency level of phytocannabinoids. With 350mg of CBD in every 50ml tub, and the added benefit of plumping collagen to promote a more youthful look, this intensive face moisturiser is designed with stressed out skin in mind. The CBD face cream uses the same multi-award-winning CBD that goes into all of their products. Developed using a specialised process designed to isolate and remove unwanted compounds, we can ensure that only the best cannabinoids make it into your CBD skin care routine. Orange County CBD is centred on quality and customer satisfaction. We are the first CBD company worldwide to incorporate peel and reveal labelling on our bottles. These include a detailed dosage guide as well as a QR code which takes you to our third party lab reports. We pride ourselves on offering products that give you an enjoyable way to take control of your CBD usage. We ensure the highest standards in quality control and strive to deliver a premium product that can support a better you. DIRECTIONS Gently massage the cream into your skin using small upward, circular motions ensuring product does not come into contact with eyes. *If product does get into eyes please rinse thoroughly and seek medical advice. If irritation occurs please discontinue use. Once opened please use within 6 months. CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS All of our products are manufactured in a controlled GMP certified lab using industry leading CO2 extraction methods. Our products are continually tested for accuracy, cannabinoid profiles and pesticides in an independent laboratory. Another great feature of our products is our unique QR codes that can be scanned to take you directly to the report for each product.

  • Sleep Regressions

    Navigating Sleep Regressions As a new parent, you may have experienced the bliss of your baby sleeping peacefully through the night, only to find that their sleep patterns suddenly change. This phase, known as a 'sleep regression', can be challenging for both babies and parents alike. In this article, we provide a guide on understanding sleep regressions, practical tips to handle them effectively, and strategies to promote healthy sleep habits in babies and toddlers that have worked for us. Remember that every child is unique so always do what works best for you and your little one! Understanding Sleep Regressions A 'Sleep regression' refers to a period when a baby or toddler, who previously slept well, starts waking up frequently during the night and having difficulty settling back to sleep. It can occur at various stages of a child's development, typically around: - 4 months: This regression is often associated with changes in sleep cycles and increased awareness of their surroundings. - 8-10 months: Around this time, separation anxiety and developmental leaps can disrupt sleep. - 18 months: Toddlerhood brings newfound independence, leading to sleep disturbances. Tips to Handle Sleep Regressions 1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Routine Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. A calming routine may include activities like a warm bath, gentle massage, and reading a bedtime story. 2. Create a Soothing Sleep Environment Ensure that your baby's sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep. Keep the room dimly lit, maintain a comfortable temperature, and use white noise to drown out any disruptive sounds. 3. Respond with Comfort When your baby wakes up during sleep regression, respond with comfort and reassurance. Offer gentle soothing, such as patting or rocking, to help them settle back to sleep without forming new sleep associations. 4. Avoid Introducing Sleep Props While it may be tempting to use sleep props like dummies or rocking to help your baby sleep during regression, be cautious not to create new dependencies that may be difficult to break later on. The dummy falling out every hour and having to get up to put it back in my baby's mouth during his first sleep regression was tough! 5. Be Patient and Consistent Sleep regressions are a temporary phase, and it's important to remember this and to remain patient and consistent in your approach to sleep, although it's tough. Strategies for Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits 1. Encourage Daytime Naps Adequate daytime naps are essential for a well-rested baby. Ensure your baby has a consistent nap schedule and create a peaceful environment for napping. An overtired baby and a sleep regression is a big combo..! 2. Establish a Bedtime Routine Consistency is key to establishing healthy sleep habits. Set a regular bedtime and follow a calming routine to help your baby transition to sleep easily. 3. Monitor Sleep Cues Observe your baby's sleep cues and respond promptly. Overtiredness can make a sleep regression worse, so aim to put your baby down for sleep at the first signs of tiredness. 4. Offer Transitional Objects As your baby grows, they may find comfort in a special toy or small blanket. A transitional object can provide a sense of security and familiarity during sleep. 5. Encourage Self-Soothing As your baby grows older, encourage self-soothing skills. Give them the opportunity to fall asleep independently, but be there to offer comfort if needed. This was a gamechanger for us! Seeking Professional Help If a sleep regression persists you could consider seeking advice from a paediatrician or sleep consultant. They could offer you with personalised guidance and support to help your baby and yourself get back on track to restful nights. Sleep regressions are a natural phase in a baby's development, and though it can be challenging, it is temporary. By understanding the triggers and implementing strategies to handle sleep regression effectively, you can support your baby in developing healthy sleep habits. Remember that every child is unique, and this phase is temporary. You and your baby will navigate this phase and find restful nights once again, even though it may not seem like it!

  • Carol Recommends - Brava Fabrics

    Sustainable apparel for conscious, creative minds. We are delighted to share with you a brand that not only makes you look fabulous but also cares for our planet. Meet Brava Fabrics, loved by thousand's worldwide! Shaking up the fashion industry, reducing the environmental impact with sustainable practices, recycled fabrics and recycled materials, Brava Fabrics have a range of styles for women from dresses, t-shirts, knitwear, pants that are all high-quality & sustainable, made in Spain & Portugal ✓ Organic ✓ Sustainable ✓ Fair Every piece in the Brava Fabrics collection is the result of sustainable manufacturing processes, and ethically sourced materials. So every time you slip into a Brava Fabrics outfit, not only will you love the fit and feel of the fabrics but you're also making a positive impact on our planet. Brava Fabrics is adored by thousands of women across the globe. And why wouldn't it be? With their wide range of styles, there's something for everyone, no matter your taste or body type. CONTEMPORARY YET TIMELESS: SUSTAINABLE FASHION FOR WOMEN "From small details to fine embroideries and fun prints, we believe that each piece in our wardrobe should have a story to tell. Instead of trendy It-pieces, we want to create timeless Womenswear, that you will wear for many years and that not just fits into one season's trends. But besides design, we also care about the environmental friendliness of each of our collections. That's why we craft all our women’s clothing from sustainable fibers like organic cotton or EcoVero viscose." ECO-FRIENDLY WOMENSWEAR FOR EVERYDAY "When designing a garment, three elements are extremely important to us: sustainability, design and comfort. To grant all three points, we take a lot of time in choosing the right materials. From sustainable buttons for our blouses, to breezy summer fabrics like linen, sustainable EcoVero viscose and recycled wool. Every season we look for new fabrics to make our womenswear even more environmentally friendly. Besides that, we always pay attention to timeless colour palettes, a pleasant feel and comfortable cuts, to create unique pieces that you love to wear every day. " FROM PRINTED BLOUSES TO BASIC TEES: WOMEN’S FASHION FOR WORK & FREE TIME "Inspired by our travels around the world, by our best childhood memories but also by the little things we encounter in everyday life: Our designers always opt for women’s clothing that will put a smile on your face." Each piece is designed in the Brava Fabrics creative hub in Barcelona and then manufactured under fair working conditions in Portugal. Check out the latest offers from Brava Fabrics! FAIR FASHION FOR CONSCIOUS, CREATIVE PEOPLE "We attach great importance to ensuring that all our employees receive a fair salary and always work under safe conditions. We know many of our seamstresses by their first names and regularly visit our production sites in Oporto and Barcelona. In this way you can be sure to receive ethical Womenswear of highest quality." Whether you're looking for printed t-shirts, high-quality blouses, airy summer dresses, creative sweatshirts or timeless chino pants, Brava Fabrics has a great selection of sustainable Womenswear for you to choose from. Check out the latest arrivals or discover the Brava Fabrics timeless bestsellers!

  • Carol Recommends - Tropicfeel

    currently 25% off! If you're looking for the ultimate backpack that can take you from a day out with the kids to a weekend away or a long trip, look no further than Tropicfeel. Boasting over 13,000 4*+ reviews, an avid following and high quality products, Tropicfeel have you covered. Tropicfeel have a range of backpacks suitable for a range of needs of Modern Day Travelers, all of which are waterproof, durable and made ethically and sustainably. All the backpacks by Tropicfeel have different ranges of versatility and are all able to expand to meet your needs. As the backpacks are aesthetically pleasing in their design, they are versatile in their use. Tropicfeel has four different backpack styles: The Shell, The Nest, The Hive, and The Cruiser. All of the different styles suit different kind of adventures. Our top pick to take you from the office to travelling with the family / a day trip would have to be the Tropicfeel Shell Backpack and here's why: The Shell has a separate “kangaroo pouch” that expands from the bottom of the backpack to store things that you want to keep separate from the rest of your backpack - for example iPads, kids snacks, colouring books, activities etc. We love the design feature of The Shell in that it's opening gives you easy access to the inside of the backpack without having to pull everything out which is something we always actively look for in a backpack, especially when you are travelling with little ones and need ease and efficiency. One of the most popular features of the Shell backpack is the way that it easily expands - it goes from an everyday bag to one you can take travelling with the family (20L - 42L expansion in seconds!) This bag is amazing for families and as it takes you from day trip to travelling or weekend trips, it's worth the money and perfect for travel lovers looking who are conscious about the items they use. Overall, Tropicfeel describes their Tropicfeel Shell Backpack as “a backpack for a lifetime.” Tropicfeel claim that they have successfully combined the ergonomic benefits of a large hiking pack with the portability and minimalist design of a daily use pack through the Shell and we couldn't agree more! The Shell is an excellent bag for families looking for a bag with organisation, the ability to expand, is waterproof, has separate pouches and has a wide range of use cases. In addition to this, Tropicfeel also sells attachments that can be added to the front of any of their backpacks to help personalise your bag - for example their Tech Pouch or Toiletry bag. These additional attachments can't be removed easily which means no accidents from little ones pulling at them!

  • Community Questions - Weaning Guide

    "Is there a weaning guide that you used when you started your little ones on solids? I want a straightforward guide that's easy to follow and not complicated. So many of the books out there are long winded and I don't have time to read a 100 page + book! Thank you." We totally get what you mean! We do have a simple guide that we followed for our first month of weaning when our babies were 6 months + which is easy to follow and easily adapted! Remember that every baby is unique so please adapt it to suit you and your little one. (We used a mix of baby-led and spoon feeding.) Hopefully it helps with a bit of structure and guidance! Baby Weaning Plan: Month 1 The first month of weaning is an essential and gentle introduction to solid foods. As you begin this new chapter, it's crucial to take it one step at a time and allow your baby to adjust to the new tastes and textures. Remember, every baby is unique, and this plan is meant to be flexible, accommodating your baby's preferences and developmental readiness. Week 1: Introduction to Purees During the first week of weaning, focus on introducing smooth, single-ingredient purees to your baby. Opt for mild and easily digestible foods such as: 1. Pureed Apple: Steam or boil apple slices until soft and then mash or blend them into a smooth puree. 2. Mashed Banana: Mash a ripe banana until smooth and offer it to your baby. Start by offering a small spoonful of puree after one of your baby's usual milk feeds. Observe your baby's reactions and cues, such as tongue movements or eagerness for more, to gauge their readiness. Week 2: Introducing Vegetables In the second week, continue offering single-ingredient purees, but this time, introduce vegetables to expand your baby's palate. Some suitable options include: 1. Pureed Carrot: Steam or boil carrot slices until soft, then blend or mash them into a smooth texture. 2. Mashed Sweet Potato: Cook sweet potato until tender, then mash it until smooth and creamy. Alternate between fruit and vegetable purees to expose your baby to different tastes. Keep in mind that your baby may only consume a small amount at this stage, as their main source of nutrition is still breast milk or formula. Week 3: Mixing Fruits and Vegetables As your baby becomes more accustomed to the taste of purees, you can start mixing fruits and vegetables to create new flavours. Some combinations to try are: 1. Apple and Pear Puree: Combine steamed or boiled apple and pear slices and blend them into a smooth mixture. 2. Carrot and Potato Puree: Blend or mash cooked carrot and potato together for a tasty blend. Introduce one mixed puree at a time, allowing your baby to adjust to the new flavours and textures. Week 4: Introducing Soft Finger Foods Towards the end of the first month, you could begin introducing soft finger foods to encourage self-feeding and improve hand-eye coordination. Some suitable options include: 1. Soft Cooked Broccoli Florets: Steam or boil broccoli until tender and cut them into small, baby-friendly pieces. 2. Ripe Avocado: Offer small, ripe avocado slices that your baby can pick up and explore. Always supervise your baby closely during this stage, as they may still be learning how to manage solid foods. Tips for Successful Weaning 1. Follow your baby's cues: Pay attention to your baby's signals of hunger and fullness, and let them guide their eating pace. 2. Be patient: Some babies may take longer to accept new tastes and textures, and that's completely normal. Be patient and try again later if they refuse initially. 3. Offer water: Begin offering sips of water from a sippy cup or open cup to complement their solid food intake. Remember that weaning is a gradual process, and it's essential to continue providing breast milk or formula as your baby's primary source of nutrition. As you progress through the weaning journey, observe your baby's development and consult with your GP if you have any concerns or questions.

  • Community Questions - Sleep in Pregnancy

    "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.

  • Mental Wellbeing throughout Pregnancy

    One of the biggest challenges that many mums-to-be face is coping with pregnancy hormones and the emotional rollercoaster that comes along with it. If you're feeling overwhelmed by your fluctuating emotions, don't worry - you're not alone. Here are some tips for maintaining emotional well-being during this special time: 1. Educate Yourself Understanding the changes happening in your body can help you navigate the emotional ups and downs more effectively. Research the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and familiarise yourself with the common emotional symptoms. Knowing that your mood swings are a normal part of the process can provide some comfort and reassurance. 2. Practice Self-Care Taking care of yourself is crucial during pregnancy, both physically and emotionally. Make sure to get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular exercise if safe to do so for you. Additionally, indulge in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, whether it's reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness and meditation. 3. Communicate with Your Partner Open and honest communication with your partner is vital during this time. Let them know how you're feeling and what you need from them. Your partner can provide emotional support and be a sounding board for your concerns. Together, you can navigate the emotional challenges and strengthen your bond as you prepare for the arrival of your little one. 4. Seek Support from Loved Ones Don't hesitate to lean on your support system. Reach out to family and friends who can offer a listening ear or lend a helping hand. Sometimes, simply talking about your feelings can provide immense relief. Surrounding yourself with loved ones who understand and support you can make a world of difference in your emotional well-being. 5. Join a Support Group Consider joining a pregnancy support group where you can connect with other expectant mothers who are going through similar experiences. Sharing your journey with others who understand can create a sense of community and provide a safe space to express your emotions. Download Carol App for free on the App store and join groups of mums at the same stage of pregnancy as you. 6. Practice Stress Management Techniques Stress can exacerbate emotional fluctuations, so it's important to find healthy ways to manage it. Engage in activities that help you relax and reduce stress, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or listening to calming music. Find what works best for you and incorporate it into your daily routine. 7. Seek Professional Help if Needed If your emotional well-being becomes severely impacted, please seek professional help and speak to your GP/Midwife. A therapist or counsellor can provide guidance and support as you navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy. They can offer coping strategies and help you develop healthy ways of managing your emotions. Remember, it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions during pregnancy and you aren't alone. Speak to your midwife/GP about any concerns you may have throughout Pregnancy and they will be able to offer guidance and support that's personalised to you.

  • Carol Recommends - Oliver Cabell

    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.

  • Community Questions - Baby Shower Alternatives

    "My sister wants to have a baby shower but doesn't want a traditional 'party' style. I'm looking at alternative options and wondered if you had any recommendations? Possibly something arts and craft! It will be London based. Thank you" This is such a good question and actually something that we get asked a lot - I think more and more mums-to-be are looking for alternative ideas to 'baby showers'! We recently came across Wecandoo and think this could be perfect for what you're looking for and is a great baby shower idea for expectant parents! Wecandoo provide workshops to create inspiring encounters between people & artisans. They have an amazing selection of workshops in London that might be of interest for you and would make brilliant alternatives from traditional baby shower ideas! For example they have a 'Create your Own Scented Candle' workshop which would be a lot of fun and also lovely to have a keepsake to remember the special occasion, or Ceramic Workshops and so much more! They provide events whatever the baby shower guest list from groups of 10, 20+ and the events can be tailored to the amount of guests you wish to invite. The events are great year round whether it's a summer baby shower, autumn baby shower or winter baby shower. Wecandoo would also be such a good gift to give to a new mum to book to give herself a few hours to herself or with a friend after having her little one. Baby shower alternatives are becoming increasingly popular for modern parents. Whether it's a virtual shower, gender-neutral celebration if the mum to be hasn't found out baby's gender, or couples shower that all members of the family can attend, there are plenty of ways to commemorate the upcoming birth of your little one. Some other ideas: 1. Virtual Baby Shower – With the rise of video conferencing and streaming platforms, virtual baby showers have become a great way to celebrate with family and friends without having to worry about physical proximity. This is a great option for parents who have guests scattered all over the country or world! 2. Gender Neutral Baby Shower – There are so many fun gender-neutral baby shower ideas that can help make your celebration special, from nautical themes, to woodland and more. 3. Couples Baby Shower – This type of shower is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows both parents and their families and friends to celebrate together. Some great ideas for couples showers include a "potluck" style event with everyone contributing dishes, or movie night with all of the attendees creating their own custom popcorn boxes. 4. Outdoor Baby Shower – Have a backyard get together for your baby shower! Whether it's a picnic-style celebration or an outdoor movie night, this is a great way to have some fun in the sunshine. 5. Charity Baby Shower – Instead of gifts for the baby, opt for donations of money or items to a local charity in their name. This can be especially meaningful for expecting parents who already have everything they need for their little one. 6. Baby Sprinkle – If you already have children, a baby sprinkle can be a great way to celebrate the upcoming arrival without having to purchase lots of new items. Ask guests to bring things like nappies, wipes, or gently used clothing or toys for your growing family. 7. Tea Party – A tea party baby shower is perfect for parents who love traditional celebrations and giving guests the chance to dress up. Have a variety of delicious teas and finger foods for guests to enjoy. 8. Co-Ed Baby Shower – Having a co-ed baby shower is the perfect way to celebrate the new arrival with everyone involved in raising the baby. Whether it's just close family and friends or an all-out bash, this type of baby shower can be tons of fun for all who attend. 9. Story Time Shower – Gather your guests together for a special story time baby shower. Have each guest bring their favourite children's book and read them to the mum-to-be. 10. Pamper Party – Give the expecting parents some much needed pampering with a luxurious spa themed baby shower. Bring in some massage therapists, nail technicians, or even yogis to provide relaxation treatments and activities for all of your guests. 11. Baby Basket Shower – Put together baskets filled with items the expecting parents will need and give them out at the shower. Guests can pick which basket they'd like to contribute to or just make a donation in lieu of a basket. 12. Kitchen Tea – A kitchen tea baby shower is perfect for those who love to cook, as everyone brings their favourite recipes for the expecting mum and dad to enjoy in the future. 13. Baby Moon – If you're looking for something truly unique, consider sending the expecting parents off on a babymoon! Have guests pitch in for a gift certificate to a special getaway spot or spa. 14. Book Shower – Books make great gifts for babies, as they help young minds develop and grow. Have your guests bring their favourite childhood books to the baby shower or put together a special library filled with board books and picture books for the expecting parents to enjoy. 15. Baby Gift Exchange – Instead of buying gifts for each guest, arrange a gift exchange in which everyone brings a present for the baby and then draws numbers to determine who gets which gift. baby shower theme ideas baby shower game ideas baby shower activity baby photos baby items baby bump baby boy shower theme baby dolls baby food fun activity party theme hilarious baby shower game fun baby shower games classic baby shower game baby picture baby shower gifts baby predictions Tea party baby blanket dessert table virtual baby shower baby names baby bottle baby clothes baby shower version baby shower photo booth modern baby shower games cute baby shower theme sheet of paper tmeless baby shower theme paper plates delicious chocolate permanent markers list of baby baby shower games ideas

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