Dragons Den Featuring Baby Loves Disco!

Will the Dragons dance with their babies tonight? 

On September the 8th we see the last in the series of the hugely popular and painstakingly addictive Dragon’s Den. Will Mancunian Naomi Timperley and her American business partner Andy Blackman-Hurwitz be able to melt the hearts of the fiery Dragons with their innovative and successful concept Baby Loves Disco? With 16 children between them you’d think Theo, Duncan and Peter would be uber interested. Tune in to BBC 2 on 8th September @ 9pm to find out!

Baby Loves Disco is a phenomenon taking the UK by storm; it’s a real disco in a real club but especially for your little ones.

Baby Loves Disco is the afternoon dance party for little kids (6 months to 8 years)
And (especially) their parents, featuring real DJs spinning tunes guaranteed to get those little booties moving and grooving. The latest and most unlikely craze was started in the US, and is well established in over 30 cities. It is also going global having recently launched in Japan, Israel and Poland.

We will certainly be watching Naomi appearing on the show- Good Luck Naomi!

Other Peoples Breastmilk 

Next Tuesday see’s the airing of the latest edition of the G-Spot series on Channel 4, and one that tackles the highly emotive issue of breastfeeding. Kate Garraway visits communites in which breastfeeding other peoples infants is completely normal, and examines the root issues of why such practices are so controversial in our society.

Kate says of breastfeeding:

”It’s the most natural thing in the world, but it can still generate such a strong reaction from people. It’s still seen as something that’s dirty. Yet in other cultures, women can breastfeed each other’s babies, for example, and nobody bats an eyelid.”

We are really excited to watch the show, and are interested in the public reactions to it. Particularly when the mothers raise the fact that most people have no issue drinking the milk of a cow, but are squemish at the thought of drinking another humans milk- which is of course a very topsy-turvy way of thinking!

”Many people might think it is weird, but they argue it is much weirder to drink cow’s milk, which is, after all, from the breast of another species, than it is to drink it from a woman. I’m not saying that I would have been able to have my daughter fed by someone else if I’d been unable to breastfeed, but it certainly makes a degree of sense.”

Be sure to mark it in your diary- Tuesday 9th September, 10pm Channel 4

Do pop back and share your thoughts on the show!

HUGE SALE NOW ON!!

Click Here for list of Sale Items !

This is one not to be missed! We have reduced tonnes of items in store, including our Hooligans of African Clothing, our Little Green Radicals clothing, Organic Baby Products, and a select range of Nappies……

Including Wonderoo One-Size Pocket Nappies on a BUY 2, GET ONE FREE Offer!!

Gets yours quick, while stocks last! 

 Plus, we still have our Babylegs on a FANTASTIC BUY 2 PAIRS FOR £12 OFFER!

 Choose from a HUGE range of designs!

We have also added some more Nappy Kits- including a Complete Kit of the bumGenius- everything you need for Cloth Nappying success!

Plus a handy Trial Pack which includes 3 bumGenius Nappies (each including 2 microfibre inserts) and a roll of flushable liners for just £40!

This is a great deal, and is proving to be very popular!

We are also thrilled to have the CuddleDry Bath Towel (as seen on BBC’s Dragon’s Den!) now in store, along with the CuddleMoo Toddler Towel.

These are the most gorgeously soft towels, made from Organic Cotton and Bamboo fibres- both make perfect Gifts!

CuddleDry: £24.99

CuddleMoo: £29.99

You know it’s gonna hurt, but how much?

The pain of labour and childbirth is, as a great relief to men everywhere, something only women can experience, and for each woman, and each child she has, that experience will always be a highly personal one.

Pain relief in labour has come a long way over the past few decades, but some things remain the same. The Victorians used laudanum, an opiate based method of pain relief, and today we have pethidine, which acts in a similar way, although is commonly received intravenously rather than sniffed.

The most radical change to pain medication in labour was the introduction of epidural or spinal anaesthetic. These work by effectively blocking all sensation in the lower part of the body, meaning no pain is felt. However, the lack of sensation generally means a lack of control, a catheter is used to prevent bladder accidents, and mothers often need help in knowing when to push.

However, many mothers are now turning back to Nature to provide the remedy for the most natural pain in the world.

So what are my natural options?

Well, breathing for starters. The Lamaze method is probably best known for advocating breathing as a means of pain relief. Some women swear by it, in a mind-over-matter kind of way, others (myself included) find the impact of breathing on the pain limited in its effect when in the jaws of a belting contraction.

Water birthing is another natural way of easing the pain of contractions, which has increased hugely in popularity over recent years. Birthing pools can be used purely for pain relief, without needing to actually deliver in the water, and can offer the opportunity fro husbands or partners to get in the pool and feel a greater partcicpation in proceedings. Water deliveries tend to be far more hands off from a midwifery perspective, which can be appealing for those wanting the most natural experience, but can prove daunting for first-timers or those of a more nervous disposition.

Aromatherapy can be used during both pregnancy and labour. Specially blended labour oils can be purchased from a number of online retailers, or the more adventurous can mix their own. Clary Sage is particularly often used in labour mixes, described as Nature’s entonox, and other popular scents include Lavender for relaxation, citrussy notes such as mandarin or bergamot for vitality and finally, tea tree for its antispetic purposes. Ouch! Oils can be used in oil burners, in baths in the early stages of labour, or as a massage oil that can be applied by birthing partners at all stages. Always take care to use an appropriate carrier oil such as sweet almond when mixing for personal use and NEVER apply oils directly to the skin.

Gas and Air, Alternative and More Unusual Methods

The most well known form of pain relief is probably gas and air or entonox. This is most effective when breathed in deeply as the contraction begins, so that the gas can take effect when the apin of the contraction is at its height. The gas is expelled as you breathe out, so only remains in your system for a very short time, when yuo really need it most. Some mothers love the floaty sensations, others feel nauseous. If you are having trouble maintaining your breathing, then the effects will be reduced.

One method of improving your breathing control is to take up prenatal yoga. Qualified instructors can teach you relaxation and breathing strategies alongside the most effective yoga shapes for both pain relief and advancement of labour. Even if you are unale to find a class in your area, there are some excellent online resources that may help, or you could consider purchasing a DVD.

 Natal Hypnotherapy is a more recent trend in reducing or even eliminating labour pain. The concept is based on self- or partner-originated hypnosis that helps to make labour more managable. Natal Hypnotherapy offers either birth preparation courses (which run over 2 days or equivalent and are attended in person by a mum and her birth partner) or a range of home-study self-hypnosis cd’s. The aim is not only to convince the mind that the pain is managable, but also to prepare women to be ready and confident for the birth.
 

So which method should I choose?

Any woman’s pain relief option in labour should be a decision for her, or in consultation with her partner. Keeping an open mind can be advantageous, especially for first-time moms, as you can’t know what the pain will feel like until you are actually experiencing it.

If you do feel very strongly that you do not want to use a particular method of pain relief, then do tell your birthing partner, as the strength of your convictions is likely to wane with each hour of labor, and he or she can gently remind you of your intentions. He or she should also be prepared to be insulted when making this helpful comment.

Finally, the ultimate way to stop the pain is to deliver your baby. The adrenaline combined with pure joy (either at meeting your child or just getting it out) makes the pain instantly vanish, allowing you to enjoy those precious first moments with the new addition to your family.

Article courtesy of Big Ugly Baby

The Natural New Mothers Toolkit 

Preparing for the arrival of a new baby is a special, precious time and some mothers feel at their closest to Nature at this point. Whether planning for a natural birth or not, Nature has its own tips and tricks to help you through those last few weeks of pregnancy and the first few weeks with the new baby.

There are numerous old wives’ tales that recommend various substances to help induce labor. In most cases, the baby will arrive when its good and ready, but there are some tips and tricks that can help from 36 weeks onwards.

Raspberry Leaf is often quoted as helping to bring labor on, but in reality it merely contains an ingredient that helps tone the uterus. This means that labor is likely to be shorter, and contractions more effective, meaning there is less chance of intervention in the shape of forceps or ventouse. Raspberry Leaf can be taken as a tea, where three to five cups a day should be taken, or can also be taken as an oral capsule.

Evening Primrose Oil capsules, often helpful in easing pre-menstrual syndrome can also be taken during this period, to ease cramps and early labor pains.

Lavender essential oil can be used in pregnancy from the second trimester onwards, and in the last couple of weeks, Clary Sage can also be added to baths or incense burners. Clary Sage has a muscle relaxing effect, and is often described as Nature’s entonox, so heady is its perfume. Preparing a massage oil for labor containing Lavender, Clary Sage and Jasmine can serve as a natural form of pain relief when in the delivery room.

Finally, fresh pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain which is believed to help soften the cervix, thus stimulating labor, however, the quantities found in each pineapple are insufficient on their own to be of a huge effect. Still, this may be helpful for those who like eating pineapple…

Post natal aids

Soreness

Adding 5 drops of each of Lavender and Tea tree Oil in a bath, or a sitz (shallow) bath will aid relaxation, and help heal tender, bruised areas and sutures, as well as keeping this sensitive area clean without the need for scrubbing.

Breastfeeding

On around day 3 P.B (post baby) the colostrum your breasts have been producing is replaced by regular breast milk. However, at this early stage, your body doesn’t know how much milk it needs to make, so it plays it safe and makes bucketfuls! Your breasts will become very full, and likely sore, but on the plus side you could give Pammy a run for her money with your impressive looking equipment. Use raw cabbage leaves, preferably Savoy cabbage as it’s softer inside your nursing bra, to help ease the pain of engorgement when milk comes in, and help prevent mastitis.

Mastitis occurs when milk ducts get blocked and often happens when the baby is not latching on properly, thereby not fully draining the breast at a feed. Engorgement can make it hard for the baby to latch on as the breast is so hard the baby is unable to draw enough of the nipple and surrounding areola into its mouth. To help, try placing warm flannels on the breast to help encourage a little milk out, reducing the pressure, or try a little hand expression until the nipple area has softened.

After the initial overdose, your milk supply will settle down once your body works out how much milk it needs to produce each day. Few women will actually suffer from a poor or insufficient milk supply, but fennel is both good for the digestive system, and can also help with milk supply. Drinking 3 to 5 cups of fennel tea a day will ensure babies are well fed, and also eases wind and colic pain in both mother and baby.

Baby’s Skin

Baby’s skin is brand new and very sensitive when it first emerges into the world. Although it is tempting to use all the various lotions and potions on the market when washing and changing your new baby, the harsher cleansing ingredients are not really necessary, and warm water will normally suffice. Also beware of over-bathing, as this can dry out a baby’s skin very quickly. Areas that get dirty quickly, like face and bottom should be cleaned daily, but just using warm water and cotton wool, cooled boiled water for cleaning eyes, is fine.

If problems do develop, cornflour can be used to help weeping diaper rash. Just sprinkle a small amount in when changing. Barrier creams like Vaseline will help prevent further inflammation.

Honey can also be rubbed into dry skin areas to add moisture, and can also help heal cuts. Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is another simple alternative to chemical creams, particularly for dry and diaper skin.

Post Natal Illness

Post natal illness is, it is believed, far more common than people think. Most mothers will experience the ‘baby blues’ which arrive about day 5-7 and last for two or three days. This is perfectly normal, is due to huge fluctuations in hormone levels following the birth, and will pass very quickly.

If, on the other hand, you or someone you are close to are suffering from longer bouts of sadness, listlessness or tearfulness, or feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness, this could be a symptom of post natal illness. If you are having these feelings, or worse, please speak to your doctor as soon as possible- he or she will be able to assess your condition and recommend suitable treatment. Although some anti-depressant medication is not recommended for use when nursing, including Prozac, there are other types available that can be used as and when appropriate. Although St John’s Wort is a recognised herbal alternative to anti-depressant medication, use of any such remedy should always be discussed with a medical practitioner first, to ensure its suitability and safety.

Article Courtesy of BigUglyBaby

Take The Baby, Not the Kitchen Sink

by Elisabeth Webber of Baby Soleil  

Looking at the new crop of changing bags on the market, I have noticed a trend. They keep getting bigger and bigger. One new bag that I saw looked like it was large enough to carry the child in. You could forget the pushchair at home, just open the changing bag, insert baby, and go. My husband and I tend to be minimalist when it comes to going out with our children. It may have something to do with the fact that we are on baby number three, but we have learned some important lessons along the way.

First, unless you are going out for days on end, don’t take half of your baby’s room with you every time. I recommend taking no more than one cloth nappy out for every hour that you are planning on being away from the house. So if you are planning on being out for three hours, yep, you guessed it, you will only need to take three cloth nappys with you instead of ten. Also, I usually only take one extra change of clothes with me, and I try to grab something ugly. Why something ugly? Because more than likely you will not need it, and by the time you remember it is in there your child will have probably out-grown it. I also tend to leave most lotions, nappy creams, etc. at home as well. Unless your child is actually suffering from dry skin or a rash in unmentionable places, then it is just extra weight in your bag.

What is the one thing I won’t leave home without? Wet wipes! I love our DadGear changing bag because it has an Easy Acess Wipes case that allows you to pull out wipes when you need them most, which seems like all of the time with our three children. Unlike all of the other things for your baby that might be hiding in your bag, wet wipes WILL come in handy. Before our son was born, I stopped carrying a changing bag for about a year and a half, and the thing that I missed the most was having something to clean up a dirty face, or quickly mop up the juice from the cafe table.

Another important consideration in choosing a bag is who will be carrying the bag. That might seem like a no brainer to most women, but if you want your husband or partner to do his share, than don’t even think about ordering that cute changing bag that looks like a giant purse. I made that mistake with the bag I purchase before the birth of our son. With our daughters, I had carried a plain black backpack, but before our son was born I ordered a gigantic straw bag that I had found online. It was really cute, but after three months of lugging it everywhere myself, I had enough. I bought a DadGear sport bag with a reversible flower on it, and now we are both happy. I can carry my bag, and when I am tired of it, I just pull off the flap, flip it around, and he has a plain black bag to carry. Pure genius!

If you are reading this article and are expecting your first, I hope I have saved you three baby’s worth of mistakes! Best of luck!

Well weve been at it again, adding new stuff to the store like crazy!

This weeks additions are:

Jackson Reece Baby Wipes

Beaming Baby Lavender Massage Oil

Beaming Baby Shampoo & Bodywash

Beaming Baby Bubble Bath

Beaming Baby Organic Baby Wipes

‘Give Peas a Chance’ Hoodie

Sling Your Baby – The Benefits of Babywearing

By Claire Willis, of SnugBaby

When I talked to a friend the other day about “babywearing” she was completely confused as to what I meant – she thought perhaps I was suggesting she use her little darling as a hat.

However, when renowned paediatrician, Dr William Sears invented the term “babywearing” in the 1980s, I’m fairly sure he meant it to mean all the possible methods of carrying a baby, and not the wearing of babies as fashion accessories. So, as one concept to cover the myriad of different ways of carrying a baby, it is great to have a catch-all phrase, even if it is a weird sounding way of putting it.

In all fairness to the human race, Dr Sears only came up with the name for something that had been going on since… well, since the first human mummy stood up, looked around and said, “Now, where did I put Baby?” Even before that our simian ancestors did (and still do) carry their offspring in a variety of ways attached to the fur of different parts of their bodies.

Humans around the world have been carrying their offspring for millennia BPT (Before Phil and Ted) and anything that has been going that long is subject to local diversity, so it’s not surprising to find a variety of methods. Of course in “less developed” countries it is still regarded as the best way of getting your kids around before they can keep up, so you will find African, Asian and South American varieties. It even used to be popular in the “developed” west before the Georgian and Victorian aristocracy persuaded everyone that children should be kept as far away from their parents as possible, handing them to nannies to be genteelly wheeled around in perambulators.

Dr Sears came up with some interesting facts, for instance, did you know that carrying your baby upright can reduce the effects of colic and reflux – definitely worth considering if you have a colicky baby (and if you do, you will try anything…I did!). Babies who are carried learn more quickly, as they spend their time being involved in your world, not just watching, but participating; developing a brain that is learning to learn.

Some people suggest that having your baby in a sling will make him clingy. Doesn’t it? Exactly the opposite, actually. Baby becomes more emotionally secure and independent as he knows you are around as a safe base from which to explore.

Need I go on? Well, if us mums are permitted a bit of selfishness, there are always the extra calories you burn by carrying your baby, and the way you can breastfeed discreetly, and the general snugly cuddles you both get to enjoy, which stimulate your new-mum hormones, and can help to reduce the likelihood and severity of post-natal depression. What do you do to get your baby off to sleep in a pram? You rock him and talk to him to simulate the motion and closeness of your own body. Now who’s starting to look more “developed”?

There are a huge variety of baby carriers around, and every “Babywearer” has their own personal favourite, although some people switch between different styles.

Mei-Tais

My own favourite is the Mei Tai, which is basically a square of fabric with straps at each corner. Because of its simple design it can be used in a variety of different positions. Simply put though, the bottom straps are tied around your waist, and the top straps go over your shoulders and wrap around you, and are then knotted, securely strapping your baby to your body.

Ring Slings

Another popular type is the Ring Sling, which is a long piece of fabric, with rings at one end. The fabric is threaded through the rings, and back on itself, to form a circle, which is very secure. The baby lies in the pouch that is formed.

Baby Wraps

Probably the first to be “invented” and indeed, still widely used, is a “wrap” or “piece of cloth”, which is quite simply tied around baby and carer, or folded into a sling shape.

These types of sling are adjustable, and one size does fit all. There are many more variations of carriers, involving headrests, padding and different shapes – and that’s before you even look at the vast array of colours and patterns available.

So, are they easy to use? Surely they can’t be as convenient as a pushchair? Yes, they are very easy, and they fold up small. Can you get a pushchair in your handbag? Can you afford a pushchair to go with every outfit?

You can go up stairs, through narrow doorways or for a pleasant summer walk. And you don’t have to push an empty one round town when junior decides he would rather walk. So I would say yes. But, your husband wouldn’t be seen dead in one? Well, men with babies are very attractive – remember that Athena poster? And Brad Pitt has carried baby Shiloh in one, so how can he object?

 Having said all that, the main benefit for me, at least to start with, was that I regained the use of my hands after months of trying to make lunch, hoover, iron and just about anything else you care to think of, all whilst holding on to my dear son. So, slings, carriers, mei tais, call them whatever you like, are starting to sound like a good idea, aren’t they? I have to admit, I got in to babywearing through necessity rather than choice, but I do love it, and so does my now rather chunky 22 month old son. The only difficulty now is choosing which fabric for the next one…

The owner of SnugBaby, Claire Willis, is a mum with two children. After the birth of her second son, she discovered babywearing and, decided to design and make her own brand of mei tai carriers, which she now sells through her website, http://snugbaby.co.uk/

Well, being a co-sleeping family, we never purchased a cot of any kind- but if we were to, this one would be it! The Cardboard Cot from Kids Gallery is simple, stylish and made from ecological, recyclable cardboard.

It comes flat packed, and complete with a comfortable mattress. Available in 3 colours, and for £57.50 this bassinet cot is kinda cool!

Scientists report that when a baby breastfeeds, a ‘trust’ hormone is released in the mother. Oxytocin has long been known to cause milk to be let down from the mammory glands, however scientists at Warwick University have now become aware that it is also involved in the enhancement of trust and love in both human, and non-human animals.

Breastfeeding triggers a surge of Oxytocin to be released, and large regular pulses of the hormone are needed to create the wave released when a mother breastfeeds, strengthening the bond between mother and child.

Yet further proof that breastfeeding promotes the maternal bond via biochemical processes.