Baby Archives - MyBump2Baby

What are the Best Baby Sun Creams for Babies and Toddlers?

09/07/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Carla's Blog /by Carla Lett

Perhaps you are jetting off abroad or maybe you are staying in the UK, wherever you are this Summer, it is important to remember to use sun cream on your little one’s skin whatever the weather. You would be surprised how strong the sun can be even on the gloomiest days. Did you know? up to 80 percent of UV rays can pass through clouds. With a wide variety of sun creams out there it is often difficult to know which are the best baby sun creams for babies and toddlers?

How often should you reapply sunscreen to a child?

Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before you and your toddler go outside – in the summer months we would suggest putting it on each morning. Reapply every two hours and more often if your little one is playing in water. Regardless of whether the sun cream states it is water resistant or not, we would still suggest you reapply more regularly.

We decided to ask some parents who follow our page to vote for their favourite sun creams;

Please note there are some affiliate links within the article and we may earn a small commission from any purchases

Top 5 Sun creams for Babies and Toddlers

Child’s Farm 50+ SPF Baby Sun Cream – Fragrance Free

£22.99

Childs Farm new formulation 50+SPF suncream for very high protection, is water resistant and protects young and sensitive skin from UVA and UVB rays, whilst keeping skin moisturised and hydrated. So you can relax while your children enjoy the sun safely. Suitable for babies and upwards. Dermatologist and paediatrician approved as suitable for sensitive skin and safe for people who may be prone to eczema.

MyBump2Baby mum says;
Sophie “We have used child’s farm on my daughter since she day dot, she has eczema and a friend recommended it to me. We wouldn’t use anything else”

Buy the sun cream here

Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Anti-Sand Kids Sun Cream Spray SPF50

This clever sand resistant formula is non-sticky and easily absorbed to avoid that sticky feeling. It’s water resistant and has a high SPF factor. It’s also a great choice for fussy babies, as it’s quick and easy to apply with the continuous, any angle spray. It’s also a good one for school-aged children to apply to themselves thanks to the mist spray application.

MyBump2Baby mum’s say

Sarah “We fell in love with this sun cream years ago, we love the fact is it none sticky which is great for my toddler and 6 year old sun as they love going to the beach”

Buy the sun cream here

Riemann P20 SPF 30 Children Sun Cream Spray

A once-a-day sunscreen, P20 has a five star UVA protection and factor 30 SPF. It’s a good choice for school-aged children, or little ones who hate having sunscreen put on and its water resistant and quick drying. It’s got more of an oily texture than most of the creams on this list, and it’s very quick and easy to apply with the spray action.

Stacey “My little ones hate putting sun cream on which is why I chose this one, just be careful putting your little ones in white clothes afterwards”

Buy the sun cream here

Green People Organic Children Sun Cream Lotion SPF30

This sunscreen from Green People is a natural sun lotion suitable for children with sensitive skin, or those prone to prickly heat. Offering 97% UVB protection (the rays that cause burning) and high protection against UVA and UVB rays. It’s made from 78% organic ingredients including Aloe Vera, beeswax and avocado, sunflower and olive oil and it’s gentle on eczema and psoriasis. It’s thicker than some others, but it rubs in well.

Martha “my little one is prone to prickly heat which is why we have always used this, my friend also uses this one on her little one that suffers with psoriasis”

Buy the sun cream here

UltraSun SPF50 Extreme Children’s Sun Lotion Once a Day

£21.99

Another one-a-day sunscreen, UltraSun’s Extreme lotion only requires one application in the morning, although reapplication is recommended for complete protection. A good option for tots who hate having sunscreen applied, it’s got a thick consistency and an easy to use pump dispenser. It can take a while to rub into the skin, but it’s worth it for the long protection.

Fiona “We first used this last year, I really love it”

Buy the sun cream here

Tips for protecting Babies and toddlers from the sun

If you are planning to be outside a lot with your little one, protect them from the sun by following the steps below:

Stay inside during peak sun hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as much as you can.

Look for shaded areas where possible, or break up your sun exposure with time out in the shade here and there. Use sun umbrellas where possible.

Remember to put sunscreen on underneath your toddler’s clothes, light-colored clothing and loosely woven fabrics allow the most UV rays through.

Choose sun-protective clothing that has SPF built right into the fabric where you can.

Put on a sun hat or cap with a forward-facing brim that shields the face from the sun.

Have your child wear toddler-sized sunglasses with at least 99 percent UV protection.

If you’re pushing your toddler in a stroller, use the stroller’s shade or a parasol that you can attach to the side rather than tossing a blanket or other heavy covering over it, which could make your child too hot. You could even look at a liner for the pram to help keep them cool, use a Nowa baby liner.

Why you Should use a Family Photographer at Your Special Event

28/05/2019/0 Comments/in Baby /by Carla Lett

Today we have a superb article written by Rosie Dedman, an expert when it comes to photography. “Photos by Rose” is a bespoke, relaxed experience offers to parents and their young families. “Photos by Rose” has a 5 star listing in our directory and you can see more of her wonderful work on her website.

Rosie is sharing her article on why you should use a family photographer at your special event

________________________________________________________

Cherish your Children. Cherish Childhood.

I am based in Paulton and offer photo sessions in Bath, South Bristol, Wells, Frome and surrounding areas. For places further afield feel free to enquire and I can see what is possible.

Have you ever looked back on photos taken at your child’s Christening, 1st birthday or other special family events and wished you had better photos? Even wished you were in them..? 

In this modern age of documenting life through photography we tend to snap images on our phones in an instant and hope for the best. Most of the time, it often tends to be one (or both) of the parents who spend a lot of time planning and then running a family event, and it is often that person, (as in everyday life) who thinks to take the key photos. This means that when their children look back in years to come at the images of their special time together, sadly, a key person is missing. This can be particularly heartbreaking in the sad event that a family member passes away, and it is hard to find an image of the family all together, or photos of special times together with that person.

During events, it can also be the case that photos taken on phones, or even on camera by your everyday guest, might not be taken the way you would like (when Uncle Bob chops the top of your head off, for example), or the lighting is too dim, or someone is looking really bored / is picking their nose. Professional photographers are experienced in these situations and will make sure, as far as possible, that everyone is looking their way (or they may do a cheeky head swap at the editing stage!). Of course they also know how to get the lighting right, and how to create images that will recall the special feel of the day, with all key people included.

Photographs are what we leave behind as we age, our legacy – they are snapshots in time, which can take you right back to a particular moment, when your precious babies were small, when they held their arms up to you to be picked up, when all they needed to make them feel better were Mummy (or Daddy) cuddles. Often they can evoke the senses, much like a piece of music, and bring back the smell of the wedding cake, the feel of the brides dress against your skin, the butterflies before you walked down the aisle. It is such a precious thing, to have your day documented in an accurate way, which makes you feel happy and like you belong: to the family; to this day; to this life.

When you take the leap and decide to invest in a photographer for your event, do make sure you shop around a little – and I don’t mean price necessarily. As with all trades, photographers differ in style and personality, and there will be one that you feel fits you and your family best. So contact a few, have a chat, and check out their portfolio before making a decision.

Professional photography is not something you necessarily prioritise for a family event (except perhaps weddings), when there is the food, the kids, and even aunty Joan (and yes, Uncle Bob) to think about. It’s all too easy to forget, or to think it is not important, and then end up disappointed. However, if you decide to invest in a photographer for your special event, and find someone whose work you love, it can really make a day extra special and create memories that will last forever.

By Rosie Dedman (Photographer)

Photos By Rose – www.photosbyrose.co.uk

Find The Best Photographer for Your Newborn | Newborn Photographer Stevenage

19/05/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Expert Articles, Guest Posts /by Carla Lett

Today we share an expert article from an incredibly talented newborn photographer based in Stevenage. Deana owns a fantastic newborn photography business called “Images of Life by Deana“. Her outstanding reviews and stunning photography skills. You can have a look at Deana’s listing with us here.

As expectant parents we have so many questions when it comes to finding the best photographer for your newborn baby. Deana an expert in the field is here to answer our questions.

_______________________________________________________________________

Let me introduce myself, im Deana a specialist newborn photographer. I am a qualiﬁed master photographer and I have also been awarded a newborn safety certiﬁcate. I started my business nearly 5 years ago after having my 3 beautiful children and I have to say I have one of the best jobs ever.

Having a baby is such an exciting time and I would encourage all mum’s to be to have your newborn professionally photographed. They change so much in just a few weeks, so being able to capture your new baby is a privilege.
Having your new baby photographed is an amazing experience but may also be overwhelming.

How do I know which photographer to choose? What do I need to look out for when selecting a newborn photographer?

Here a a few commonly asked questions & tips to ﬁnd the best photographer for you;

When is the best time to book your newborn photographer?

As soon after your 20 week scan as possible. Many newborn photographers will only photograph 3-4 newborns a week, so they can get booked up quite quickly.

But what if my baby is early or late?

Your photographer will allow for this when you book by not booking in too many due dates per month so they can accommodate you when your baby arrives.

I’m worried my baby wont settle, what will happen if my baby just cries throughout the photography shoot?

A fully trained newborn photographer will know how to settle & soothe your baby. Its our job to make sure your baby is happy and content at all times.

How do I know which photographer to choose?

Its important to understand that all photographers are different, with regards to style, training & experience. This is often reﬂected in price. Always check your photographer has trained in safely posing newborns, don’t be afraid to ask to see evidence of this.

Do you like the photographs on their website? Do they have great reviews? Do they offer products?

What should I be looking for?

1. What training have they undergone

2. Do they hold a newborn safety certiﬁcation

3. How much experience do they have

4. Check out websites, fb, instagram is their work consistent.

5. Check out the reviews.

6. Pick up the phone and have a chat or pop along to the studio if your still not sure.

Why does a newborn photography session have to be done when baby is under 2 weeks?
Babies will still curl up nicely as they were in your tummy at this age, they will be more sleepy which gives your photographer the best chance of getting those beautiful shots. Any colic or baby acne will likely not have appeared at this early stage.

But what if I have to stay in hospital and miss that 2 week stage?
Dont worry an experienced photographer will still know how to capture beautiful images of your baby, there just may be some restrictions in terms of poses.

Will my baby be safe?
It is important that you choose an experienced trained photographer as your baby will be in the safest of hands. They will know when to do a composite image, babys head will always be supported. No risky poses will ever be done. Its important that you do your research when looking for a newborn photographer and dont be afraid to ask about newborn safety. Look out for the newborn safety certiﬁed badge on websites.

Will i need to provide props?
Your photographer will likely have a huge range of props to choose from, so you wont need to provide anything.
There are lots of photographers around to choose from, so its important to choose the right one for you as it is a once in a lifetime session. I hope the above has helped, always do your research, make sure you love what you see and don’t be afraid to arrange a time to talk or meet your photographer to go through any questions you may have

Deana Louise Hewitt AMPA Images of Life Photography

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Naming Ceremonies | Lytham St Anne’s

15/05/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Expert Articles, Guest Posts /by Carla Lett

At MyBump2Baby we are proud to have our expert article section to help parents gain more understanding on different topics that may be of interest. Today we have the lovely Jo from “Celebrate with Jo”. Jo offers naming ceremonies in Lytham St Anne’s and the Lancashire area, you can find her listing with us by clicking here.

Lots of parents love the idea of a christening but then feel they shouldn’t have one as they are not religious. Very few parents realise that there is an alternative option.

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Growing family? Wondering how to mark the occasion? What about a naming ceremony?

You may have noticed that naming days and naming ceremonies are gaining popularity in the U.K. But what exactly is a naming ceremony and could it be an option for your celebrations?

Overview of a Naming Ceremony

A naming ceremony is the focal point of a baby or child’s naming day. It provides the perfect opportunity to ‘officially’ celebrate a birth, adoption, change of name or the coming together of a step family. Naming ceremonies can accommodate more than one child and there are no age restrictions; in fact, it’s a lovely idea to incorporate a role for the older sibling(s) should you wish to do so. Although they’ve been around for many years, naming ceremonies are currently proving to be a particularly popular option with parents who would like to welcome a new arrival but, for whatever reason, feel that a traditional christening isn’t for them. The great thing is there are no rules; they provide the means to mark the milestone of a new arrival in a way that’s as unique as your child. They can be non-religious, semi-religious or a blend of faiths…the choice is yours!

Legalities of a Naming Ceremony

Just like a church christening, naming ceremonies have no legal standing. Whether you decide to have one or not is completely up to you but they provide an opportunity to mark a special event surrounded by people who mean the most. Whatever type of ceremony you’re planning, you need to register a birth in the U.K. within 42 days and complete the necessary formalities associated with an adoption or change of surname. Naming ceremonies are inclusive; they’re suitable for single parents, unmarried parents and same sex couples.

When and Where Can you Have a Naming Ceremony?

Weekend namings are the most popular but they can be held on any day of the week at any time of year. Typically lasting around 40 minutes, the naming ceremony itself can be held practically anywhere; premises don’t need to be licenced. When choosing a venue, you might consider your home, a hotel or community centre. How about a favourite park? Or the beach, perhaps? Just have a plan B in mind if the weather’s not kind! The ceremony is usually, but not always, conducted at the beginning of any other celebrations you’ve arranged for your child’s naming day; this could be a drinks reception, sit-down meal or something less formal. As not all parents have the time (or energy!) to arrange a naming celebration in the months following a birth, a popular choice is to combine the occasion with a first birthday party. Although naming celebrations can be arranged at short notice, it’s usual to allow at least couple of months to prepare for a perfect day.

Format, Structure and Tone of a Naming Ceremony

Naming days can be as formal or informal as you like; you set the tone in conjunction with whoever’s leading the ceremony. You could even have a theme for the day, too, such as pirates, princesses or super-heroes! Many people view naming days as a contemporary option but still like to have a more traditional approach when arranging the ceremony itself. Basically, it’s up to you. The main consideration of a ceremony is that it’s personal, meaningful and reflects your values and beliefs.

Although there’s no set structure, a typical ceremony could include some or all of the following:

1. Introduction and welcoming of guests.

2. A few words about the journey leading to the child’s arrival.

3. An overview of a child’s personality/likes/dislikes and how his/her name was decided.

4. Reading of favourite poems/prose/song lyrics.

5. Pledges/promises of love, commitment and support by the parents and any other special family or friends appointed as ‘guide parents’ or ‘supporting adults’.

6. Incorporation of symbolic gestures such as the lighting of a candle, the planting of a tree or the creation of a time capsule for the child to open on a special occasion in the future.

7. Conclusion and presentation of a certificate, which serves as lasting memento of the occasion.

Who Conducts the Ceremony?

The simple answer is, whoever you like! If you, a member of your family or a close friend is confident enough leading the ceremony then that could be an option. For most people, having a celebrant ensures things run smoothly and enables everyone else to concentrate on enjoying themselves. As well as conducting the ceremony, a celebrant or registrar should be able to advise on suitable readings, poems and pledges as well as the general format. Whoever you choose for your special day, you should ensure that sufficient time is taken ahead of the ceremony to ensure that he/she fully understands your requirements to ensure that it reflects your wishes, values and beliefs.

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of naming ceremonies and, however you choose to mark the occasion, I wish you a wonderful day of celebration!

Contact details for Jo at the Lancashire Naming Celebrant are;

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Tel: 07949427557

Swim into Summer

02/05/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Expert Articles /by Carla Lett

Where are you going on holiday this summer? Home or abroad, hotel or self-catering, chances are that it’ll involve water. Water Babies explains how to make sure summer splashing is fun and safe for everyone.

Like a child to water

There’s a reason Earth is known as the blue planet: water covers eighty percent of its surface. Life-giving, therapeutic and quite literally everywhere, it’s little wonder that we’re drawn to it – especially in the summer.

Recent research at the University of Exeter showed us that ‘blue views’ made us feel happier and more positive than any other view. It’s the reason people have been taking the sea air for centuries, and why so many of us will head to the seaside this summer.

But nobody loves water more than children. Having spent their first nine months growing in water, babies have a natural affinity with it. Whether bath time relaxes or excites your baby, you’ve probably seen this at home.

Water is a sensory playground like no other. It gives babies, toddlers and children huge benefits for their physical and mental development and ongoing wellbeing. In fact, research shows that children who swim from babyhood continue to reach physical, social and cognitive milestone ahead of those who don’t.

Splash safely

It’s little wonder, then, that our children are drawn to water. If you’ve ever caught your toddler as they head straight towards the garden pond, you’ll get this. And you may not be surprised to learn that drowning is still one of the biggest accidental killers of one to four year olds.

So, apart from growing eyes in the back of your head, is there anything you can do to prevent this?

“Safety is one of the main reasons people start baby swimming lessons,” says Bryony Johnstone, who teaches water safety and confidence to under fours in Bristol, Bath and North Somerset. “Even tiny babies can learn to kick to the surface and hold on to the poolside or something that floats. But, most importantly, regularly swimming from a very young age means that children stay confident and won’t panic in an emergency.”

Splash always

Starting young also means learning to swim well from a young age. While you’re not necessarily thinking about preparing your baby for the 2036 Olympics, you are laying the foundations for lifelong water safety, confidence and fun.

Water proficiency opens up a whole world of swimming, diving, snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and more. “I’m pleased that I’m a strong swimmer,” says Rufus, 13, who did Water Babies classes from the age of 12 weeks to three years. “Last year I came second in an aquathlon. And I love surfing, it’s really fun.”

Summer splashing

Whether you’re holidaying home or abroad this summer, now’s the perfect time to introduce the smallest member of your family to the water. Teaching them to kick, float and be at ease going under the water will not only get them ready for summer swimming, it’ll help their development and give them a vital life skill.

Water Babies teaches babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers and their carers important water safety and confidence. Innovative classes gently build foundation swimming skills from first splash to independent swimming by the age of four. To find out about classes in a warm, private pool near you, call 0117 946 6919 or look at our website www.waterbabies.co.uk. We have a new term starting in May.

If Only You Could Rent Baby Clothes | Baby Clothes Subscription Box

30/04/2019/1 Comment/in Baby, Carla's Blog, Favourite Brands /by Carla Lett

“Have a baby “they said…. “it will be fun” they said… but they never said how many sleepless nights you have when you have a baby.

Regardless of whether it is the numerous night feeds or the amount of thoughts on your mind when you are trying to balance everything that comes with being a parent, there is always a little bit of stress attached when it comes to running a household.

We simply cannot deny the increase in outgoings when it comes to starting a family. The fact is, our babies are always growing which means clothing purchased that initially fits like a glove, regularly need to be replaced with new clothing.

When it comes to babies, growth spurts happen at different stages and sometimes you can end up buying a whole new wardrobe and within weeks the clothes have gone from loose to bursting at the seams and new sizes are needed. Before you know it, you are haul-assing your way to the local shop on an urgent shopping spree at a time that is totally inconvenient for everyone not to mention expensive.

Now what if this problem could be fixed? What if this problem could be fixed with one simple change? What is you could rent baby clothes via a monthly subscription….. wait a minute….. YOU CAN!!!!!!!!!!

Baby Clothes Subscription Rental Service

Troberg Baby Box is a subscription rental service that allows you to rent clothes for your baby rather than purchase them, ultimately saving you money and creating a simple delivery service to ensure you receive your new clothing ready for the next growth spurt. The old items are simply sent back, quality checked, washed and sent to a new family. This is a great way to recycle baby clothes.

The Björk Box is a subscription renting service that brings 16 baby clothes items right to your door. Use them for 3 months or until they no longer fit and swap them for the next size up. The box is based on a simple brand to match the simple life we are trying to create for you. By having a subscription box, you can rest easy knowing when you need clothes most they will be delivered to your door.

The Clothing Inside the Baby Box

There are no time restrictions when it comes to the items, simply return and swap as and when suits you and your baby. The baby clothing is 100% cotton, 100% soft. All the clothes are machine washable and each box is designed to get you through one week.. Just throw it all in the wash and you will be ready for another 7 days – it is that simple!!!!

Our Review of the Troberg Subscription Box

The box was delivered and came in a beautiful box.

Inside the box there was some lovely items which comprised of;

Baby Grows x 2

Baby Vests x 5

Tops x 5

Trousers x 1

Bibs x 3

Hat x 1

The clothes are good quality and the outfits included in the box cleverly match up together no matter what top or trousers you choose.

Why We Recommend Troberg Baby Box

Let’s face it, as parents we long for an easy life. When I think about the most difficult times of the day with George they often involve trying to locate something to wear and match it up with something else. I personally would have loved this box when George was a baby, I think it would have saved a fortune.

The whole concept of the baby clothes subscription box is fantastic. In the first 2 years of parenting we spend lots of money on new items and our babies barely have a chance to wear everything before we are replacing it with something else.

Based on our experience we have awarded Troberg Baby Box with our Recommended on MyBump2Baby badge.

If you would like to get started with your own baby box click here.

You can follow them on Facebook too.

Greenhawk Spirit | The Magical Teething Jewellery Specialist

30/04/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Favourite Brands /by Carla Lett

“Isn’t teething fun” Said no parent EVER!!!

Teething can be a very difficult time for both parents and baby, with lack of sleep, ongoing tears and plenty of unsettling symptoms – it really is no wonder parents are often searching for some kind of magical teething jewellery to help them through this difficult stage parenting.

There is no set age for teething, although very rare, it is not unheard of that babies can actually be born with teeth. Others, start teething before they are 4 months old, and some after 12 months. But most babies start teething at around 6 months.

What can help with teething?

If I said I hadn’t heard the raving reviews about the benefits of Amber when it comes to teething babies, I would be lying. Many parents who have used Amber cannot speak highly enough of it, which is why we were really excited to share more information about the amazing Green Hawk Spirit – a company who specializes in Amber teething jewellery.

What is Amber and how can it help a teething baby?

Now, this is where it gets interesting, the story behind Amber is incredible. Amber came from tree resin millions of years ago. It has been on one heck of a journey from initially being buried, fossilized and created over this time. One of the main noted points in lore for ‘Amber’ is that it is said to have properties that can help soothe a person, traditionally being used as jewelry on infants to help with teething.

Here are some reviews from other mummy bloggers who swear by Amber Teething Jewellery;

Suzy who blogs at Our Bucket List Lives said “We had an amber bracelet for my son when he was younger. He sailed through teething and I’m sure it was because of this. The times he wasn’t wearing it he always seemed grumpier. I miss seeing it on him now as he looked so cute wearing it.”

Mandi who blogs at Big Family Organised Chaos said “we had never tried an amber necklace with the first 5 children and I was a little skeptical, but gave it a go with number 6 and omg it was amazing, he sailed through teething, and it was the first thing I reached for when we had baby number 7. “

Kelly who blogs at It’s a Tink Thing said “My daughter wore an amber anklet/bracelet and then a necklace. I can honestly say we never even knew she was teething, unlike with my son, who didn’t wear amber! She only stopped wearing the necklace about a year ago at the age of 6. I’d recommend everyone to try it!”

Lisa from The Family Ticket said “I honestly thought that the amber necklace was going to be another fad which didn’t work.
I never noticed it working or not working but both my boys had their teeth come through with barely any problems.
Now that I hear other mum friends struggling so much with teething and their little ones I’m totally convinced it must have been the necklaces….plus they look super cute!”

About Green Hawk Spirit

Green Hawk Spirit are a developing business and family, dedicated to learning about and being mindful of the world around us. They have been creating this fantastic company for a few years but only in the last year have they truly found their feet and emerged into the world of holding stalls, attending events, online retail and so much more!

Green Hawk Spirit specialize in Authentic Baltic Amber teething jewellery. Their products are available in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes to ensure there is something to suit all families. They also have a selection of mixed jewellery, containing Baltic amber and semi-precious stones, including rose quartz, amethyst and plus lots more.

We love the fact that all of the amber purchased comes presented with an authenticity card and free, first class, signed for delivery within the UK.

Reviews from other parents who have used Green Hawk Spirit

At MyBump2Baby we love discovering fantastic new businesses and you only have to look at the fantastic reviews from parents who have used Green Hawk Spirit to see how well valued they are;

“I received my order very quickly and beautifully presented would highly recommend. Thank you again😊” Kim

“Really lovely bracelet, my little girl is very happy and the packaging and certificate were all very nice too! Arrived so quickly. Thank you again for running the competition and for your great communication 🙂 xxx” Chloe

Based on the reviews from customers, we have now awarded Green Hawk Spirit with our Recommended on MyBump2Baby badge.

If you would like to purchase some Amber Jewellery you can visit their website or Ebay Shop and follow them on social media where they regularly hold competitions for their followers.

You can find their website here

Follow the Facebook page here

Taking Children Abroad – Who Has Parental Responsibility for the Child?

12/04/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Expert Articles, Guest Posts /by Carla Lett

With summer fast approaching, there is no doubt that many parents will be making plans to take their child abroad. Despite this, parents and grandparents may not be considering the legal implications of taking their children or grandchildren on holiday, especially when there is a child arrangements order in place. This guidance may help you decide whether you need to take any extra steps before taking your child or grandchild abroad this year.

Who has parental responsibility (PR) for the child?

“I am the child’s biological parent; do I not automatically have PR?”

In many cases, this is true. Mothers automatically have PR, as do fathers who were married to the mother at the time of the child’s birth.

“I am the father of the child but I was not married to the mother at the time the child is born”

The father can acquire PR by:

Being named on the birth certificate (from 2003);
Through a PR agreement with the mother; or
An order of the court

Divorce does not remove PR from either parent.

If both parents have PR and there is no child arrangement order in place, neither can take the child on holiday outside the UK without the consent of the other parent (or any other party with PR). Consent from both parents is also needed if the child is going away without a member of the family, for example, on school trips.

What do I do if the mother/ father refuses to give permission for me to take the child abroad?

If one parent unreasonably withholds consent, you are able to apply to the Family Court for permission to take the child abroad. This permission is granted in what is known as a Specific Issues Order.

“I am the grandmother of the child; my son (the father) has given me permission to take the child on holiday – is this okay?”

No. If grandparents or other family members want to take a child abroad, permission will be needed from both parents with PR and not just from one parent.

Concerns of abduction

It is not unusual, in families with international connections, for either parent to be anxious that someone may refuse to return their child to the UK. If you wish to prevent a child being removed from this country you can apply to the Family Court for a Prohibited Steps Order (PSO). A PSO prevents either parent from making specific trips with their children without express permission of the other parent.

If there is an immediate risk to the child’s welfare, an emergency order can be sought and the court can order that airports and ports be alerted to the child’s potential travel and the child can be detained at the airport or port. The court can take a number of urgent steps to prevent a child being taken out of the jurisdiction.

The repercussions of taking a child abroad without consent

Removing a child from the UK without the necessary consent, even if this is just for a summer holiday may be a criminal offence under the Child Abduction Act 1984.

We recommend that parents who are separated with children, approach the subject of booking holidays carefully and with proper legal advice.

The Family Law team at Lester Aldridge can provide you with confidential legal advice. Please contact Partner Rosemary Sharp on rosemary.sharp@la-law.com or 01202 786343 to discuss any of the above.

Do Early Experiences Make a Difference to a Baby’s Brain?

09/04/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Expert Articles, Guest Posts /by Carla Lett

Do Early Experiences Matter when it comes to a Babys’ Brain?

Research have shown that the first three years of your child’s life are uniquely important, because this is the most sensitive period for brain development. The experiences your child will have during this time, will shape the architecture of his/her brain, and build the connections that will help him/her develop important life-long skills like problem-solving, communication, self-control and relationship building.

New brain connections are formed at a rate of 700 every second in response to your baby’s experiences out in the world. These connections help your baby learn the essentials to survive and thrive within his/her family, community and culture. It’s the quality of your baby’s relationships that has a major influence on which brain connections take place and the strength of these connections.

What does this mean in Terms of a Baby’s Brain? Early experiences do matter.

Your baby’s brain connections, reflect the quality of care he/she receives. These differences have impacts that can last a lifetime, because our brain connections affect the way we think, the way we learn, and the way we manage our feelings and build relationships with others, all the way into adulthood.

What can you do to optimise your baby’s brain development?

Responsive care

Tune in to your baby’s signals, words, facial expressions and actions.
Respond in a way that respects your baby’s needs.
When you respond in a sensitive way, you are letting your child know you understand what he/she is telling you – that you respect his/her needs.
These loving back and forth interactions build strong, positive brain connections that help your child thrive over time.

See your child as a partner in your interactions

Like a game of catch, it is all about back and forth.
One of you starts the interaction – the other responds.
Talk to your baby – and give them time to respond, through sounds, words or actions – then you answer back. It’s a dialogue.

There is another, perhaps surprising experience, that also nurtures healthy brain development….

Dealing with some stress

That’s right! A little bit of stress goes a long way towards building a strong, healthy brain.
Helpful stress is brought along by the everyday challenges we face, like muscling through a difficult task or experience.
These challenges help us learn new skills and how to solve problems, such as figuring out a puzzle or dealing with some difficult feelings.
Working through this kind of stress is what helps us to get along with others and ultimately succeed in work, school and life.
Your child is able to tolerate stress, because you are there to support him/her and he/she has learned to depend on you.
So watch your child carefully to see what he/she is capable of and when he/she needs your help.
Giving your child a chance to struggle a little, helps him/her how to solve problems on his/her own.
See yourself as a coach, offering ideas or suggestions, but do not take over.
Step in only when it is necessary.

Remember, it is mastering new challenges that builds brain power and the motivation to learn.

So what matters the most? YOU!!!

You are the most important person in your child’s life.

You know him/her best.

You love him/her most.

Remember…You are not just singing lullabies, stacking blocks, changing diapers, playing peek-a-boo or sharing stories.

You are helping your baby build a healthy brain!

Written by:

Natasha McLeish

Creator of www.brainybaby.site

How I Became a Baby Wearing Mummy | Kosie Carriers

28/03/2019/0 Comments/in Baby, Guest Posts /by Carla Lett

With lots of childcare experience and being a qualified maternity nurse I knew exactly how I was going to parent. My baby was going to be well-balanced, content and in a routine although able to cope with change. . . Then I met my daughter.

From the moment she was born I knew something wasn’t quite right. The nurses tried to help her settle by putting her to sleep on her stomach in the special care baby unit (don’t panic she had a breathing monitor so it was safe to do so!) however nothing would soothe her. I tried everything from a dummy to rocking but the only time she was not crying was when she was feeding or asleep in my arms. Eventually after trips to the doctors achieved nothing, I took her to the out of hours where a paediatrician diagnosed her with reflux and prescribed medicines. The medicines took the edge off but she still needed the comfort of my arms and regular feeding as she was vomiting most of the food back up.

Using the Baby Sling

Then my mother in law came over and brought the sling she had made for me. I politely thanked her and didn’t think much of it. I never saw myself as a baby wearing mummy, I believed that baby wearing encouraged babies to be too dependent on the care giver. The next day I wanted to prepare some food for lunch and with every time I put my daughter in the bouncer leading to crying I put the sling on and began making lunch. Before I knew it my daughter was asleep and I was able to prepare lunch and do a little bit of housework.

How the Baby Sling Helped us

After a few days of using the sling I realised that I could go one step further as after a while of pottering around I was able to lift the sling over my shoulder and put my daughter down while still having the sling around her so she was kept snug and warm and didn’t notice my body heat disappearing therefore staying asleep! Now there was still times where she wouldn’t settle or the transfer to the cot would fail but it was a drastic difference to having her in my arms 24/7.

From then on the sling went everywhere with me and I would use it as a breastfeeding cover, a blanket and a sling. It was referred to as my little girls’ happy place. I was able to breastfeed her walking around the shops and nobody would notice a thing! Sometimes she would throw up but that wasn’t too much of a problem as I would put it on a quick wash and it would be ready to go again.

Well when I read all the books studying childcare and preparing to be a parent, no one mentioned that my baby may not have read those same books. Parenting is hard but it is the most rewarding thing in the world. Using the sling made it a little bit easier for me and I’m glad I get to share that with other parents though my website.

Now Amy owns the fabulous Kosie Carriers in a bid to support other parents.

You can visit their website here

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