Top Ten Sods Laws of ParentingRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 May 2024 Top Ten Sods Laws of Parenting ‘It’s like raaaiiinnnn on your wedding day. It’s a giant poo, when you’re already late.’ No matter how recently you’ve changed them, the second you place a fully dressed baby in the car seat they will instantly soil themselves. The more layers, the higher the probability. If they’re wearing a pram suit, it’s practically a given. They NEVER nap, except when you desperately need them not to. Shout out to the Mum’s reading this from the car outside their house; temporarily incarcerated by the small snoring human in the car seat in the back. Said small child can easily stay awake for an entire 6 hour road trip; yet somehow develops narcolepsy the second you need them to stay awake for a short drive to the supermarket. The one time you forget the spare clothes, you will never need them more. We’ve been hauling round a Spiderman backpack stuffed with more outfit changes than a Cher concert for the last 2 years; the ONE TIME we leave it at home you can bet your bottom dollar you’ll be wiping their arse with your socks and fashioning them a pair of trousers out of a old towel you found in the boot. Nothing cures kids faster than a trip to the Doctors waiting room. Following stern words with the receptionist to secure the appointment (‘Yes it’s urgent Karen, I KNOW MY OWN CHILD OKAY?!”) the kid, previously at death’s door; springs back to life the instant their name is called. This leaves you wishing they were slightly more unwell than they now appear, so the Doctor won’t think you’re a crazed hypochondriac. Oh Ducking Hell You’ve been forking out £15 a lesson for Baby Spanish for an entire year with not so much as a ‘Hola’ back; but guaranteed the ONE TIME you tell Daddy to go fuck himself and THAT’S the word they repeat. ‘Oh they won’t eat that’* *Unless they’re at your Mother-in-Law’s, or at nursery, or in the care of literally anyone else but you. The week you go back to work they will be ill like they’ve never been ill before. You: Wants to prove you’re a capable, together individual who can juggle motherhood and her career, no problem. Also You: Has to call IT on day 2 because the baby vommed on her Macbook. You can’t wait for a night out, only to spend every second missing them like hell It’s a universally accepted truth that you’ll spend the entire evening scrolling through your camera roll and discussing your baby’s bowel movements. Extra points if you’ve got pictures on your phone of your baby’s bowel movements. The one day you forget the pram You’ll have to carry the kid around like a 20lb kettlebell until your arms feel like they’re about to fall off. The moment you think you’ve got this shit down It all changes and you realise you haven’t got a clue.
Weaning: The Six Recipes We Used On RotationRead More Want your baby to try meat? When you’re ready, add 1/4- 1/2 a pack of cooked mince (lamb or beef). *Top tip: Boil an extra pack of the butternut squash/sweet… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 14 May 2024 Weaning: The Six Recipes We Used On Rotation Easy is our speciality Weaning can be so much fun. It’s so cute seeing their little faces tasting foods for the first time. It can also be bloody annoying. Especially when you’ve spent 45 minutes making elaborate quinoa patties that just end up on the floor. Plus, it’s a prime-time opportunity for Mums to be put under pressure. But just because Amy from NCT is making extravagant meals every day, it doesn’t mean you’re the Devil if lunch is served from a pack. Your kid. Your rules. However, If you want to give the cooking thing a go and don’t want to spend hours slaving over a stove, you might want to check out the following recipes. Butternut Squash Bolognaise From 6 months old Use these cubes to add flavour to pre-made packs and mix it into everything from couscous to pasta. It’s also tasty on top of toast or potato – sweet or plain. Step One Chop one onion and sauté in a pan with a smidge of unsalted butter. Step Two Add 1-2 cans of chopped tomatoes, a generous squish of tomato puree. One crushed clove of garlic. One tsp of Italian herbs and some pepper. Step Three Simmer for 10 minutes, then let the mix cool. Step Four Meanwhile, boil one pack of pre-chopped butternut squash/sweet potato until soft. Step Five Once cooled, mix, blend, and then transfer into large ice cube trays and freeze. Want your baby to try meat? When you’re ready, add 1/4- 1/2 a pack of cooked mince (lamb or beef). *Top tip: Boil an extra pack of the butternut squash/sweet pot mix and leave some out to mash. Decant into ice cube trays and freeze. It’s a great back up to increase the veg of any meal and also mixes well with avocado or banana. Pizza Toast From 6 months old Baby crying and doesn’t want to be put down? This is our go-to meal when there is zero time (or brain cells) left. Step One Cover one piece of lightly toasted bread with puree (We like: veg lentil bake or tomato and lentil bake from Ella’s kitchen). Step Two Finely grate mild cheese over the top. Step Three Grill until it bubbles. Step Four Cut off the crusts and slice into small portions. Step Five Serve with some leftover puree that you can spoon-feed. Leftover Porridge Muffins From 7 months old Constantly making way too much porridge? This recipe from Leading Children’s Nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed, is a great way to use up lefties. Step One Take porridge leftovers from the pan. Step Two Add more oats if it’s quite watery and stir through. Step Three Add to muffin cases or press into a greased tin. Step Four Bake in the oven for around 30 minutes for tomorrow’s quick or on the go breakfast. Peanut butter & Banana Cookies From 6 months old This recipe makes too many for your baby to eat before they go stale. Which sadly means you have to eat some – sorry about that. *Recipe adapted from https://babyledkitchen.co.uk/recipe/peanut-and-banana-cookies/ Step One Preheat your oven to 190C/375F. Step Two Mash 1 small banana in a bowl. Step Three Warm 1 level tbsp of coconut oil, then mix with the banana and 1 tbsp of desiccated coconut, 2 heaped tbsps of plain flour and 2 level tbsps of (unsalted unsweetened) peanut butter. Step Four Make about 12 balls and flatten into cookies. Step Five Place on a pre-lined tray, then bake for 15 minutes and leave to cool. Easy Peasy Brunch From 6 months old Breakfast for lunch or dinner, is a real saviour when you’ve run out of ideas on what to make. *Top tip: Always make extra, so you don’t steal their whole meal. Step One Scramble one egg and cook for 1-2 minutes in a pan. Step Two Add a squish of veg puree to a bowl or plate. Step Three Serve with avocado, either on small slices of toast or mashed up with a touch of lime and pepper. Freeze Me Fish Pie From 7 months old A great one to whack out in front of the Mother-in-Law. These make you look like a Supermum with hardly any effort. Plus, you can reduce the number of ramekins you make and steal half the mix for a grown-up dinner. Just add in more fish and smother some mash on top. Step One Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas mark 6 Step Two Melt 15g of butter in a pan with 1 finely chopped onion and 1 thinly sliced leek. Step Three Cut approx. 350g white fish fillets into cubes and fill the bottom of approx. 6-8 ramekins Step Four Stir in 1 tbsp of plain flour into the leeks and onion mix and then gradually add in ½ pint of full-fat milk. Step Five Stir in 50g of grated cheese, then spoon the mixture over the fish. Step Six Sprinkle a little more cheese on top of each one, then bake for 20minutes until golden. Step Seven Cool, cover with foil and then freeze. *To reheat microwave for approx. 2mins, stir and then let it cool. Serve with some veg. We like to use sweet potato mash or offer soft broccoli or carrots as finger foods. Tags newDesign
The Products That Make Weaning A Lot EasierRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 14 May 2024 The Products That Make Weaning A Lot Easier *Vileda mop not included… But you need one! 1. iCandy MiChair If we’d known the amount of time we’d spend with our child’s highchair, we’d have invested a lot more time into getting the right one. Essential tick boxes to check are that it’s easy to clean, looks good in your home, adapts as your child grows, and is well made. And this does all of these! And more! The iCandy MiChair can even be used from birth with the addition of the iCandy Newborn Pod, which can either be used as a rocker on the floor or simply docked onto the frame. The MiChair also transforms into a toddler chair making it suitable up to the age of approximately six years old. And now it comes in this stunning new black design, which we’re considering having another baby for. Buy Now 2. Babymoov Nutribaby Glass Food Prep Maker Expensive yes, but this blender is made from sustainable materials and is better for the environment and healthier for prepping food for your baby. It’s also stylish and compact enough to take pride of place in your kitchen and large enough to batch cook up to 21 meal portions in one go. Buy Now 3. Weaning Made Simple By Annabel Karmel Packed with brilliant recipes from the queen of wean! It’s also filled with plenty of practical and nutritional advice. The guidance regarding balancing milk feeds with solids is particularly useful, as are the photos of actual size finger foods, and guidance on feeding babies who are following vegetarian or vegan diets. Buy Now 4. NUK Food Cube Tray Ahh the ice cube tray. An essential item in the early days when your baby only needs a tiny amount of food but you make about 400 portions. Make sure your tray is made from silicone for easy removal. Then once frozen, pop them out and store in a resealable bag – so there’s even less stress at mealtimes. Buy Now 5. Munchkin Miracle 360 Sippy Cup These are hands down the best cups for introducing water to your baby as they can gently suck the sides to get to the good stuff. The soft silicone is also gentle on their gums and they’re great at withstanding multiple drops and throws without spilling a drop. Buy Now 6. Baby Boosa Bib There are lots of bibs on the market but these are made from the softest material and gently hug your child’s neck so that as much of the food that is possible lands in the loop. The brand also make some other brilliant products including suction bowls and plates, snack pots and soft cups. Buy Now 7. Poppets Frozen Baby Food Made by a mum and paediatric nurse who wanted to make other parent’s weaning journeys as simple as possible. The meals are prepared and instantly frozen, in the same way that you would do it at home, but someone else is just doing the hard work for you. They only use fresh organic fruit and vegetables, as well as protein packed pulses and wholegrains. Buy Now 8. Toddlekind Splat Mat Not a completely essential item so please don’t feel the pressure to splurge but if you’ve got nice flooring it can work to protect them from the constant mess and it also be moved to be used later on in life when your child is doing arts and crafts (very helpful!) or if you want to have a picnic outside and want to make hard concrete slabs baby-friendly. Buy Now
Your 3-Minute Guide To WeaningRead More It can feel quite daunting to start your weaning journey, but it’s actually SO fun! And of course (like everything), there’s tons of reading you can do. But these are… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 14 May 2024 Your 3-Minute Guide To Weaning Learn the basics over a cuppa It can feel quite daunting to start your weaning journey, but it’s actually SO fun! And of course (like everything), there’s tons of reading you can do. But these are the fundamental things you need to know. Oh, and remember the shed load of muslins you bought? They’re about to become reeeally handy… How do I know when my baby is ready to wean? Start at around 6-months old or when they can hold their head sufficiently, pick-up food, put it in their mouth and swallow it. How do you start weaning a baby? It can be very entertaining to see how your baby reacts to new flavours, which is why most parents start by offering a bit of their own food. Ready to do things properly? Build positive associations with mealtimes by creating a calm environment, play some music, make eye contact and give them big smiles. Don’t stress Milk is your baby’s primary food source, so don’t fret if they turn down your pea and broccoli mash-up. “It can take up to 10-15 times for them to like certain flavours, so let them play with food and don’t push them to eat”, says baby food brand Omami. Start with your greens? “Offering veggies first can encourage more of an acceptance of them later on”, says nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed. But don’t worry if you offer fruits too – you haven’t failed! Adding in a small amount apple to make peas more palatable is totally ok. Remember, fruits are still nutritious, just try to make sure meals aren’t overly sweet. What should I feed my baby? “Weaning is a golden time to introduce your baby to lots of different flavours and textures. It helps create a love of food that will hopefully continue through toddlerhood and beyond”, says Omami. What should you not feed a baby? No salt, sugar, honey, whole nuts, non-pasteurised cheeses, runny eggs, raw shellfish or rice drinks. How much should I feed my baby? They’re all different, and it’s entirely normal for them to change day-to-day. Appetites can be affected by lots of things like teething, tiredness or illness. Just follow their cues for when they’ve had enough. Pre-mades and packs are LIFE It’s SO frustrating when you boil and blend foods they refuse. Save yourself some time by trying out some organic pre-made baby food. Shop Here Baby-lead or spoon-fed? It’s totally up to you. Why not do both? Suggests Omami “Give your baby something to hold and chew on as you spoon-feed or have some meals as finger food and others as puree”. Want to do more research? Omami have loads of info on their blog and ‘How to wean your baby’ by Charlotte Stirling-Reed is available on pre order here. You can also follow Charlotte here. Tags 3minuteread, newDesign
TMC’S Guide to Tunbridge WellsRead More Royal Tunbridge Wells has a lot more to offer than just good schools! The Mum Club Tunbridge Wells Host Felicity Tidey shares her favourite places in the town… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 9 May 2024 TMC’S Guide to Tunbridge Wells Royal Tunbridge Wells has a lot more to offer than just good schools! The Mum Club Tunbridge Wells Host Felicity Tidey shares her favourite places in the town… Where to Stay… Hotel Du Vin The rooms are not as expensive as you’d think and it’s in the perfect location for all of the town’s shops and restaurants. It also sits just on top of Calverley Park, which is great for kids (*if you bring them), and the hotel is also dog-friendly, which is surprising, but helpful if you have a four-legged friend. Find out more Where to Eat… Best Baby Brunch Spot The Old Auction House, at the bottom of the Pantiles, is the perfect spot for brunching with little ones. It’s also one of the places we like to host TMC brunches. It’s light and spacious, has parking right outside, and has an excellent menu for all ages. They also have a small play area and a toy box that would make any child envious. Come to Our Next Brunch Best Date Night It’s a little out of town, but the Shufflehouse is well worth a trip as it serves great food and cocktails. They also have an Escape Room experience over the road, and of course, you can try your hand at shuffleboard. *Make sure you pre-book these activities and a table, as they are hugely popular. Find out more Best Cake Shop I love Ruby’s on Monson Way. It is both Instagram-worthy and yummy. Everything is vegan (and you’d never know), and the staff are welcoming. It’s not to be missed, and they have a café in Greenwich too, if it sounds like your vibe. Find out more Best Pub The White Bear on the High Street is beautiful inside and out and serves delicious food. If the weather is good, request a table at ‘The Orangery’ as it has a retractable roof that opens up on sunny days. The stylish bistro pub is also perfectly placed on Tunbridge Wells’ pretty high street, which is a quick walk to the station and also The Pantiles. Find out more Best Bakery New on the scene, Halstead Bakery, on Camden Road, is one to make a detour to. Serving pastries so big you ‘could’ share and extraordinary sourdoughs that rival its more centrally placed rival Gail’s. They are also open from 9am on a Sunday, which is winning. Find out more Best Lunch (and you can stay) Often nicknamed Sunny Tunny, Lunch is excellent almost everywhere when the temperatures soar in the town. There are plenty of spots on The Pantiles – all highly rated, and great pub gardens like The Barn or The George. But if you want a special lunch, it’s worth taking a short trip to The Beacon for incredible views and food. And you can now stay there in their exquisitely decorated rooms. It’s a great spot that’s even worth booking if you’re just driving through. Find out more Best Local Business Family-run Seafood specialists Sankey’s are weaved into the fabric of Tunbridge Wells and now have multiple locations across the town. The original and most famous is their excellent pub and restaurant at the top of town. Their fishmongers which is just outside the station. And The Fish Market, which is situated in the middle of The Pantiles and serves the best lobster linguini you’ll ever eat. Find out more Do This… Go for a Walk Dunorlan Park (the place where we have our TMC walking clubs) in central Tunbridge Wells has views to die for and a large lake which operates boat trips throughout the summer. There’s a café, parking and pram-friendly paths, and a playground for the older kids. It’s got it all! You are also spoilt for choice for great pram-friendly and child-friendly walks within a short drive of Tunbridge Wells. Bedgebury Pinetum for the Gruffalo trail and pram-friendly paths, and Bewl Water (plus they have an Aqua Park in the summer for the older kids and soft play all year round). Scotney Castle is a National Trust site with bluebells as far as the eye can see. Kingdom is also stunning. It has a café where they hold yoga classes and a hot spa you can hire out. It’s great for birthdays, hens, or just a Sunday afternoon. Pooh Bridge is also a kid-friendly walk, and you can play pooh sticks off the bridge. If your little one is still in a carrier, Ashdown Forest is great for the views alone. Join Our Next Walking Club Have the Most Amazing Massage Weirdly, with it being a spa town, Tunbridge Wells doesn’t have a great spa to talk about. (*Currently, The Spa Hotel doesn’t live up to its name). But if you want a fabulous massage, there’s no one better than Kim Wimble, who has recently set up a residency at The Spring Rooms on The Pantiles. Book now Pick Up Some Stylish Flowers Mrs Florist on London Road is worth visiting for the gorgeous smells and colours alone. Find out more Treat Yourself to a Facial If you want a really good facial (that actually does something). Then book into The Face Workshop on the High Street. Georgina offers facials, microneedling, masks, peels and pretty much everything else. She’s also an experienced nurse and knows SO much about skin! Find out more Stroll Down The Pantiles The Pantiles is an absolute must while in town. There are lots of fantastic kid-friendly cafes, a market full of yummy food and artisan products every weekend throughout the summer, and it’s close to the high street with lots of unique shops. Prepare to spend some money! Find out more See Jazz on The Pantiles Jazz on the Pantiles (now renamed Live on The Pantiles) happens every Thursday evening from May to October. It costs £5 to enter and then you can have dinner alfresco at one of the many fantastic restaurants and listen to some great Jazz on the bandstand. It’s iconic. If you want a slightly more lively evening then make sure you look out for The Soul Train events as they tend to attract a slightly younger crowd. Find out what’s on Best Time of Year to Visit? This has to be the summer as there’s so much to do in the outside space. In addition to the other parks already mentioned, Grosvenor & Hilbert has a brilliant playground and skate park for the older kids. Plus, the Pantiles really comes to life in the summer. Best Free Attraction… Calverley Park Calverley Ground for all the free festivals. Gin & Jazz festival, Local & Live Music Festival, Tunbridge Wells Food and Drink festival, plus Christmas with the big wheel and ice rink. And don’t forget the Adventure Playground, a hidden gem right in the heart of the park. You could easily lose a day here with your little ones, with The Inside café coffee and food keeping you going. Find out more Travel Notes… Plenty of car parks are dotted around town, and trains run from London every half an hour and take 55 minutes. There is also a great (and cheap) bus line which runs from Brighton every hour.
The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in MayRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 May 2024 The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in May Book a JoJo Maman Bébé Family Festival Event JoJo Maman Bébé Family Festival This month, JoJo Maman Bébé is running some seriously exciting events. Alongside their exclusive brunches with us (info below). They’re also bringing you some incredible events in store. The JoJo Family Festival is running from the 29th of May to the 9th of June, and is two weeks of in-store events, that are happening all over the UK. All about motherhood, community spirit, and helping children be children, you can expect everything from storytelling to postnatal yoga. And the best bit? They’re completely FREE. Find out more in the link below. Find out more TMC members get an exclusive 10% discount at JoJo Maman Bébé in store from the 29th May to the 9th June Book a Mini Break for the May Bank Holidays The Best Places to Have a Long Weekend From bank holidays to mini-breaks, family travel experts Tiny Travelship, say these are the best places to book… Read Now Join Us for an Exclusive Festival Experience Camp Bestival Shropshire Offer Make some excellent plans this August and join us at Camp Bestival Shropshire! Buy a weekend ticket, let us know you’re coming, and then we’ll add you to our exclusive list – which gives you access to the Paradise Garden area. Find out more Book a Trip to Copenhagen’s Chicest New Stay Bella Grande Hotel, Copenhagen Copenhagen is one of our favourite city break locations. Full of things to do, brilliant food and packed with culture, it now houses the most beautiful boutique hotel, which opened a few weeks ago. One to book with friends, a partner or even a solo trip on your own. Find out more Take the Kids to Battersea Power Station Free Kids Table at Art’otel Since the recent renovation of the historic power station, Battersea is fast becoming one of the best places to visit in London. Full of brand new shops and restaurants, it’s set right on the river and has a new tube line, so you can get there via boat, bus or train. One of the star attractions is the stunning Art-otel, which has a beautiful restaurant that runs a kids table every Sunday. Meaning you can eat in peace while your children are entertained with an array of crafts and activities. Find out more Shop the New Loewe Paula’s Ibiza Collection Mini Loewe Font Tote in Raffia We’re a sucker for a bit of raffia and this new collection just screams summer. Making our basic loose tees and jeans instantly brighter (and lbh, cooler). And yes it’s a pricey treat but you can’t put a price on happiness. Shop Now See Some Iconic Fashion at Blenheim Palace Icons of British Fashion (Now- 30th June) Britains most iconic designers have taken over Blenheim Palace. Showcasing their creations in the most ornate and elaborate rooms. On until the 30th June, it’s a day out not to be missed. Stroll around the 300 year old palace and you’ll see designs from world class designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Stella McCartney and more. Organise All Your Store Cards in One App Stocard This app is a complete lifesaver! Now instead of telling the cashier that we’ve left our cards at home or lying that we don’t have one, we can now proudly show them all off in one handy app. And as well as making us feel like the most organised humans on earth, it also shows you where you can make extra savings. Thank you to the person that invented this. Now can you come over and sort out the rest of our lives? Download it now Read This… How Not to Let Having Kids Ruin Your Sex Life Maybe not one to read on the tube. But if it’s been quite a while since you and your partner were intimate and you want to try and find a way to reignite your libido. Then this is the book for you. Highly informative, helpful and so reassuring. Shop Now Watch This… Fall Guy, in Cinemas 2nd May We’ll make any excuse to head to the cinema to watch Ryan Gosling. In this new film he plays a stunt guy who falls in love with his director (Emily Blunt). We can’t say if it’s good or not but we’ll still see you in seat C13 with a sugary sweet mix and a large merlot. Watch the Trailer The Tattooist of Auschwitz, 2nd May Sky Atlantic Heather Morris’ bestselling novel, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, has been adapted into a powerful new TV series for Sky. Telling the hard-hitting real-life story of Lale Sokolov, a Jewish prisoner at Auschwitz in the Second World War, who is tasked with tattooing his fellow prisoners’ arms with their ID numbers, and falls in love with one of the women he tattoos. It stars both Oscar-nominated Harvey Keitel (The Irishman) and World on Fire‘s Jonah Hauer-King as Lale. A weekend movie night in, that’s sure to stir up some emotions. Watch here Doctor Who, 11th May We love Ncuti Gatwa and on the 11th of May we’ll see him return as the Fifteenth Doctor, alongside Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday. Whether you’re a Doctor Who fan or not, we think this might be our favourite series yet. Watch here Bridgerton , May 16th It’s back! And this series is set to focus on Pen and Collin. And as the trailer reveals, there may just be more than “friendship” brewing between them. Watch here Blast Out Some Karaoke Bam Karaoke, London Stylish Parisan brand Bam has just opened a 22 room venue in London – which makes it Europe’s largest Karaoke bar. Decked out with the chicest interiors, it’s the perfect location for that long awaited girls’ night out. Find out more Practice Body Sculpting Naydaya The Gua Sha You’ve probably heard of facial massage and possibly Gua Sha. But you might not know of the benefits of doing it on your bod and this month Naydaya is launching their new Gua Sha tool. When used on the body it can help to support healing, inflammation and firm the skin. It can also be hugely beneficial if you have loose skin post pregnancy. *Now we just need to find the time! Shop now Learn How to Protect Vulnerable Children Support the NSPCC’s Listen Up Speak Up Campaign New findings show that 30% of adults have had concerns that made them think a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect. And it might not be something you ever have to worry about or experience, but the NSPCC are encouraging everyone to take just 10 minutes out of their time to equip themselves with the tools and know-how on when to spot if a child might need some help. Find out how you can help
10 Ways to Survive Camping with KidsRead More Feel like camping would be way too tricky with children? Our Mum Club hosts and team share their best tips to attend Camp Bestival. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 May 2024 10 Ways to Survive Camping with Kids Feel like camping would be way too tricky with children? Our Mum Club hosts and team share their best tips to attend Camp Bestival. 1. Bring a Really Good Bag “Yes, camping trolleys and prams are great, but you also need a good bag to carry all your essential items in (e.g. spare kids clothes, emergency snacks, and as much booze as you can take!!!). This extremely lightweight backpack from ROKA London is made for adventures and is perfect for festivals -it’s also made from recycled plastic bottles! It’s so comfy to wear, has three convenient front zip pockets and generous interior storage. And, if the weather fails you, it’s also waterproof!” Lydia House, TMC Editor Buy Now 2. Avoid loo dramas “Not just for training toddlers, this travel potty is a great queue-avoiding product for kids of any age. And if things get really bad, you can use it too.” Luzaan Shaw, TMC Wokingham Host Buy Here 3. Prepare for chilly nights “Make sure you pack a really good sleeping bag and warm clothes for the little ones. It gets cold in the evening, we even felt it, and we were in a bed.” Ally Pap, TMC Wimbledon Host Buy Here 4. Ditch the camping chairs “Ditch the camping chairs. Camping chairs are heavy and more hassle than they’re worth. I’d suggest bringing a picnic blanket or plastic sheet that you can wipe down. You can also use it to create some shade if you’re nifty enough.” Alex Molloy, TMC Knutsford Host Buy Now 5. Pack a magic mirror “These mirrors are brilliant for getting ready as they drop down to become a full-length mirror and attach to your tent with Velcro straps. They also fold up into a stand that is perfect for make up or glitter application and are as kid-proof as mirrors get.” Charlotte Johns, TMC Solihull Host. Buy Now 6. Swim wisely “Take a Wild Swimming Coat: I’m sure there are lots of brands available but we all know the one I’m talking about! I’m no wild swimmer but for the walk to the showers and back this was absolutely perfect. No need to even take a towel!” Amy Stokeld, TMC Salford Host. Buy Now 7. Don’t forget to BYOB “Anything that isn’t in glass is acceptable(ish) – pack wisely!” Alex Molloy, TMC Knutsford Host. Buy Now 8. Wash your kids in a bucket “Shower queues are not the one, so I’d definitely recommend taking a bucket big enough for the kids to sit in, fill it with booze or clothes on arrival then use it to wash the kids and take a little dip yourself when you’re there.” Charlotte Johns, TMC Solihull Host. Buy Now 9. Take endless snacks “From setting up camp to waiting until food stalls are open having your own stash of bananas, biscuits or whatever your kids usually crave will save you. As mums we all know how valuable a snack is…but when your day is extended by around 6 extra hours because us adults want to enjoy the evening entertainment…snacks are required in abundance!” Ally Pap, TMC Wimbledon Host. 10. Bring your own eco glitter “Avoid having very disappointed little people and pack lots of eco body glitter as they’ll see other kids with it on and want it and if you can’t get your hands on any sometimes the queues at glitter stations can be quite long. Take it and avoid the stress.” Luzaan Shaw, TMC Wokingham Host. Buy Now
What To Wear This WeekRead More All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 May 2024 What To Wear This Week Festival attire that you can wear every day… Isla Knitted Tie Tank Aligne £89 Slim Mom High Ankle H&M £22.99 Long Line Raincoat Next £62 Citty Slip On Boots Ganni From £207 Silver Ripple Earrings Missoma £105 Branded Tote Bag TMC £10 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
The Best Things To Shop At Zara Kids Right NowRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 2 May 2024 The Best Things To Shop At Zara Kids Right Now Newborn & Baby Sweatshirt Co-Ord Zara £16.99 Embroided Romper with Ruffle detail Zara £25.99 Striped Waffle Knit Set Zara £14.99 Textured Printed Playsuit Zara £22.99 Floral Poplin Shirt Zara £16.99 Textured Printed Dungerees Zara £22.99 Cable Knit Jumpsuit Zara £22.99 Plain Plush Bomber Jacket Zara £18.99 Linen Dress With Ruffles Zara £27.99 Textured Jacket Zara £25.99 Swiss Embroidery Romper Zara £22.99 Knit Blend Cardigan Zara £18.99 Leather Flat Heart Detail Zara £27.99 Toddlers Linen Dungerees Zara £18.99 Ruffle Tulip Swimsuit Zara £14.99 Slogan Print Sweatshirt Zara £14.99 Floral Dungerees Zara £25.99 Open sneaker Zara £15.99 Shapes Patch T shirt Zara £18.99 Striped Jersey Shorts Zara £9.99 Quilted Jacket Zara £27.99 Denim Dress Zara £18.99 Lined Cargo Trousers Zara £16.99 Big Olita Zara £8.99 Cotton Sneakers Zara £27.99
Spring Outfit Ideas For You and For ThemRead More Or if we’re lucky enough – a holiday!! You don’t have to dress up to come to our events. But it sure feels nice to! Wearing that one iconic outfit… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 30 April 2024 Spring Outfit Ideas For You and For Them Before babies we thought that shopping for our kids would be one of the most fun things ever. But sadly we didn’t plot in the 367 other things we’d have to do in a day. Including getting ourselves changed. So to help you out (and us!). Here are 4 outfit ideas for the new spring season. Sporadic Sunny Beach Day Or if we’re lucky enough – a holiday!! You: Ruched Bandeau Swimsuit &Other Stories £55 Gemstone Amelia Bracelet Estella Bartlett £21 Peace and Quiet Tote Ssense £55 Leather Cord Sandals Zara £35.99 Amante Maxi Dress Second Summer £235 Them: Ellie Bow Cap Konges Slojd £30 Raffia Style Backpack Zara £22.99 Pale Blue Jelly Sandals Liewood £26 Paperbag Denim Shorts Zara £12.99 Frill Swimsuit Kidly £17 (Sale) Meeting New Friends at a The Mum Club Brunch You don’t have to dress up to come to our events. But it sure feels nice to! You: Voluminous Stand-Up Collar Blouse & Other Stories £87 Molten Duo Huggies Astrid & Miyu £60 Leather Ballet Flats Arket £149 Quin Quilted Jacket Free People £188 Washed Grey Cargo Jeans Mint Velvet £99 Them: Sun Sweatshirt Zara £14.99 Hooded Puffer Gillet H&M £14.99 Suede Espadrilles La Coqueta £46 Ribbed Socks Next £7 – £10 Baggy Fit Trousers Zara £22.99 For the Fancier Occasions Wearing that one iconic outfit to birthdays, weddings and everything in between… You: Pearl Earrings Studio Ena €100 Bow Plissé-lamé Clutch Loeffler Randall £210 Oversized Double Breasted Blazer Frankie Shop €365 Heeled Sandals Mango £45.99 Tiered Sleevless Dress & Other Stories £135 Them: Falling Star Alice Band Mimi and Lula £8 Chunky Collared Cardi Boden £47 Lids Ballet Pumps H&M £7.99 Unicorn Glitter Bag Rockahula Kids £15 Floral Tulle Dress Zara £15 The Places They Play and We Pretend to Look Interested Whether it’s soft play, parks or the playground, they all have to close at some time! Which is when we take our ‘We’ve Been Excellent Parents’ asses to the pub.. You: Stripe Shirt Boden £55 Ribbed Vest M&S £9.50 Motif Cap H&M £11.99 Quilted Jacket Mint Velvet £149 High Rise Relaxed Jenas Abercrombie and Fitch £72 Trainers Adidas £79.99 Them: Baby Blue Sunglasses Ipizizi £30 Striped Snoopy Swaetshirt Zara £18.99 Colour Block Cap Kidly £13.50 (Sale) Pale Blue Trainers Vans £35 Pull-on Denim Trousers Arket £37 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Crunchy Pomegranate SaladRead More Recipe from: https://www.howsweeteats.com/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 30 April 2024 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Crunchy Pomegranate Salad Ingredients 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced 4 cups curly or tuscan kale, thinly sliced 2 pears, cut into matchsticks 1 large shallot or 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced ¾ cup shredded carrots ½ cup pomegranate arils ⅓ cup roasted pumpkin seeds ⅓ cup toasted walnuts or pecans, chopped salt and pepper CITRUS VINAIGRETTE 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, finely minced or pressed ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Method 1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, kale, pears, carrots and pomegranate. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper and toss well. Add in the pumpkin seeds and nuts. Drizzle with a few tablespoons of the dressing and toss. Let the slaw sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. 2. You can assemble the ingredients ahead of time, just want to dress until a few minutes before serving. CITRUS VINAIGRETTE 1. Whisk all ingredients together until combined and emulsified. This dressing stays great in the fridge for about a week. Recipe from: https://www.howsweeteats.com/
9 Laundry Hacks That Could Change Your LifeRead More Who knew that becoming a parent would mean you spend 65% of your time washing and organising clothes! We also spend way more money on their clothes than on ours…. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 30 April 2024 9 Laundry Hacks That Could Change Your Life Who knew that becoming a parent would mean you spend 65% of your time washing and organising clothes! We also spend way more money on their clothes than on ours. So, when their new very cool sweater gets a stain on it, we’re definitely more annoyed than we should be. However, we are 100%, not the kind of people who know how to get that shit out (actually that’s a lie, Jess, TMC Franchise Coordinator, is!). So we’ve leaned on the expert know-how of the Queen of Clean, Lynsey Crombie. Who is the UK’s No. 1 home & lifestyle expert, best-selling author and successful clean-fluencer (yes that’s a thing!). To bring you, and whoever does the washing, some hopefully life-changing tips. *Oh and there’s also a tip in there from TMC’s Jess. How to wash your clothes better You need to stop using hot water Using hot water? Stop, says Lynsey. “Most baby food stains are protein based so these are pretty easy to get out, but you must always use cold water as hot water will set the stain even further into the fabric. Reverse the garment and flush under a cold tap to push as much of the stain out as you can using just the water.” “Washing up liquid is normally all you need. After the cold flush rub in a few drops of washing up liquid, leave to sit for approx. 15 minutes, rinse, then wash as normal.” “If you are finding that most of the babies’ items are stained and don’t have the time to stand and pre-treat each stain, add into the wash a non bio stain remover, I recommend Astonish OXY active non bio stain remover, with this product you just add a scoop direct to the drum before adding in your laundry.” You don’t need a specific baby wash Lynsey says, “Always use a non bio wash because the stain busting enzymes in bio can be too harsh for babies’ skins. But most brands do a non-bio option and you do not need to go for baby specific brands.” These are the best stain removers Lynsey says, “All stain removers tend to work if you follow the instructions, Vanish just tends to be a higher priced stain remover.” “For stubborn stains that won’t budge I highly recommend use ACE, treat the stain as soon as you can and then wash as normal. Or add in a Oxy Active non bio stain remover to your wash.” How to get the whitest wash Lynsey says, “To achieve the whitest washing use bicarbonate of soda. Put it into each wash and add a big scoop direct to the drum.” Hang your clothes near a window to remove stains Jess, TMC Franchise Coordinator (and also our resident cleaning expert), says, “Hanging your whites in sunlight after you’ve cleaned them helps to get rid of baby poo and tomato stains. The sun acts as a natural bleaching agent as its UV rays break down the stains molecular structure. Obviously far more effective in summer but one I’ve tried and it definitely works.” The best way to remove pen marks Lynsey says, “For felt pens marks, a mixture of washing up liquid and white vinegar will get these out, rub in together and leave to soak.” “For ink, soak in full fat milk overnight and then wash as normal.” Why you should wash baby clothes before they wear them Lynsey says, “Baby clothes can pick up a lot of dust and irritants between the warehouse, the shop, and your home. So, it is a good idea to give them a little refresh as babies have such sensitive skin.” Don’t have time? TMC Editor, Lydia House says, “I definitely did this for my first baby and my mum thought I was mad. However, my son’s skin is very sensitive, so I’m glad I did. I didn’t always do it with my second and he was fine. So if you don’t have time, I wouldn’t stress about it too much. You’ll. know soon enough if your baby is more sensitive than others.” The best way to get out bolognese stains Lynsey says, “As this is a protein stain if treated quick will come out easily with a cold flush and washing up liquid.” Marks on clothes after every wash? This might be why… Lynsey says, “If your washing is coming out of your machine with marks on then this is a sign that your washing machine is not clean, it is very important that we look after and clean the things that clean for us. Clean the machine and also empty and clean the filter, to clean the machine there are many great washing machine cleaners available from the supermarkets such as Dr Beckmann and Vamoosh or you can use soda crystals.” “Don’t forget to take out the drawer and give this a soak.” Tags cleaning, home
Reviewed by us: HFX Hoover Cordless Pet Vacuum Cleaner with CORNER GENIE™Read More Use the code TMC20 for 20% off all Hoover products at HooverDirect.co.uk Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 April 2024 Reviewed by us: HFX Hoover Cordless Pet Vacuum Cleaner with CORNER GENIE™ “This has tons of functions and has made cleaning my house and car so much easier. Even with two unruly toddlers.” Reviewed by TMC Editor: Lydia House Pros It has a turbo setting that makes cleaning quicker, more efficient, and more fun. You can store it anywhere and it’s easy to charge and very slimline, which means it can fit in the smallest of spaces. It also converts to a smaller handheld vacuum, which comes with additional attachments and bin. Being cordless, it’s quick to whip out, making vacuuming less chore. The motorised mini power nozzle is perfect for pet hair and if you have messy toddlers, as it lifts the dirt from sofas, chairs and surfaces. It also has a long crevice tool that helps you reach awkward spots. It’s easy to empty the dirt, as you simply press down on a quick-release pedal. Cons The 5-year warranty is subject to registration within 30 days from purchase. So don’t forget to do it. You’ll become obsessed with hoovering (and the turbo option). 20% Off ALL Hoover Products Use the code TMC20 for 20% off all Hoover products at HooverDirect.co.uk What is the Hoover Cordless Pet Vacuum Cleaner with CORNER GENIE™? No corners are left unsucked with the HFX cordless vacuum cleaner. Giving you 30 minutes of cord-free suction power, it’s the revolutionary new way to clean your home. The clever vacuum comes with multiple attachments, is lightweight, and has a handy loop that makes it easy to carry around the home. Designed to pick up dirt from hard-to-reach areas, the innovative CORNER GENIE™ nozzle allows effortless manoeuvring and reaches hard-to-reach places the attachment is removed via a quick-release pedal, and the flat shape cleans under furniture with ease. The head has anti-twist technology, which prevents hair from wrapping around the brush, and the top section can be easily removed to remove any pieces that get stuck. It also has an LED light to reveal hidden specks in dark places. And it can convert to a handheld vacuum with additional bin and tools included. Why We Like It… “I didn’t think changing my vacuum cleaner would make that much of a difference. But this is something else! It comes with so many attachments and charging and cleaning it is a complete doddle. It’s easy to take apart when you get something stuck and taking out the dirt is so simple and done by pressing a pedal. The children used to drive me mad by pressing buttons on our old machine, and it was cumbersome to get out. Now I can get this out quickly and vacuum up their mess immediately. The multiple attachments mean I can get into every corner and even use it in my car. The turbo setting is especially great if they’ve brought mud into the house. The turbo setting is especially great if they’ve brought mud into the house. The 2in1 Dusting Brush and Upholstery Tool is also handy for this, as it helps do two jobs simultaneously. You can store it standing up or fold it to fit in a smaller space.” Shop Now Any Downsides? “With so many different attachments and tools, it’s a tech lovers dream. However, that does mean it requires some learning. But even if you’re usually a manual dodger (like me). It’s worth reading up about what it can do as handy things like taking the top off the head, so you can get bits out that get stuck and stop the brush from rotating, are SO handy!!” Shop Now Where to Shop HFX Hoover Cordless Pet Vacuum Cleaner with CORNER GENIE™ Shop the vacuum here. And don’t forget to use your exclusive TMC Discount. Shop Now PRODUCT SPECS Category – Cordless Colour – Black-Rose Weight – 3.65kg Dimensions – Height: 112cm x Width: 20cm x Depth: 25cm Capacity – 1.19 L Run-Time – 30 (mins) Charging Time – 3.5 (hours) Warranty – 5 Years (2 Years For Battery) HFX Hoover Cordless Pet Vacuum Cleaner with CORNER GENIE™ £349 View Now CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HOOVER
30 min Trying to Conceive WorkoutRead More View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bump Plan®️| TTC/Pre/Postnatal (@thebumpplan) Post author By The Mum Club Post date 22 April 2024 30 min Trying to Conceive Workout Tailored for those on their journey to parenthood, this 30-minute session combines cardio, Pilates, and functional training. What Are The Benefits? Studies have shown that regular, moderate intensity physical activity is linked with a higher rate of pregnancy compared to those who are inactive, and these effects have also been seen in some women experiencing reproductive health problems. The Bump Plan’s TTC Workout Routine Designed not just as a workout but as a foundation for future wellness and growth, supporting your body’s preparation for one of life’s most beautiful journeys. Watch and Do the Workout Here… View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bump Plan®️| TTC/Pre/Postnatal (@thebumpplan)
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