The Items That Make Getting Dressed EasierRead More Wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? Leading Stylist Sarah Barlow, says it’s completely normal to no longer identify with your wardrobe after you have a baby. “That might… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 February 2024 The Items That Make Getting Dressed Easier Wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? Leading Stylist Sarah Barlow, says it’s completely normal to no longer identify with your wardrobe after you have a baby. “That might be down to shape change, but it’s also because your life has changed too. “When you have 5 minutes to get ready, the last thing you want to do is rummage through sequin trousers and leather mini skirts to find something suitable for soft play.” Sarah says, “You don’t need to throw everything out and start again. Follow my tips and I promise you’ll find getting dressed so much easier!” Things to Do Before You Shop Buy a New Bra Boobs change whether you breastfeed or not. And your clothes won’t fit correctly if your underwear doesn’t. And you don’t have to drag yourself and your newborn to a bra fitting, as some lingerie brands such as Bravissimo offer them online. Make Time for a Clearout Assess what you can wear right now. Then, take out the rest and either whack beloved non-wearables in vacuum-packed storage, take them to a charity shop, or sell them on Vinted (for more premium items, I recommend listing them on The Cirkel). If you make money, you can put it towards buying new items. Create Structure When placing everything back into your wardrobe, try rearranging it into clear categories. This may sound obvious, but it will make getting dressed much easier. I always use this order: dresses, tops, shirts/blouses, skirts, shorts, trousers, suits/co-ords, jackets. Knitwear and jeans are best folded or rolled in drawers or baskets. Spread Out The Expense Clearing out might have solved the issue of ‘what to wear’ and enabled your wardrobe (and mind) to breathe. But if not, then you might need to buy a few versatile staple pieces that can easily be worn and styled together. But there’s no rush. You don’t need to have a brand-new wardrobe within a week. Think of this as the beginning of your new style journey, and remember to look for specific items on preloved sites to grab a bargain. Your ‘New Mum Wardrobe’ Starter Kit 1. A Flattering Shirt White, cargo or printed – a good-fitting shirt can be worn casually with leggings, smart tracksuit trousers or jeans. You can also dress it up for work or a special occasion by pairing it with a skirt or layering it underneath dresses. Buy Now 2. Comfy Trousers That Make You Feel Smart A flattering wide-leg cut will suit pretty much any body shape. They’re a smarter alternative to casual jeans, but thanks to the elasticated waist, they’re a hundred times more comfortable! Buy Now 3. A ‘Goes With Everything’ Trainer It’s incredible what a new pair of trainers can do for your soul, and they go with everything. There may be rumours that the ‘white trainer is dead’, but I strongly disagree. Think practically instead of getting carried away with fleeting trends; decide what shade and style of shoe will work with most of your clothes. Buy Now 4. The ‘Do It All’ Dress A new dress that you can wear with boots, flats or heels is invaluable. Polka dots and prints like leopard are also versatile as they work across seasons. Buy Now 5. The I Feel Fancy Coat A new coat is probably the most expensive purchase of the fashion year. But it is worth investing in quality as it will see you through winter after winter and make you feel more put together. Buy Now 6. The Shove-It-All-In Tote I love a ‘hands-free’ cross-body bag, but sometimes it just won’t cut it, and a larger carrier is required. Anything washable or wipeable also gets my vote. Buy Now 7. The Timeless Trench A trench is a timeless classic but extremely practical… especially one that’s waterproof or comes with a hood. Buy Now 8. The Basic Breton Top I’d be pretty surprised if you didn’t already have one, but if not opt for one with a dark navy stripe, and it will go with every other colour/piece in your wardrobe. Buy Now 9. Your Favourite New Jeans This one might take some time to shop, but life will be much easier when you get a great new fit for your shape. So either book out an afternoon where you go on your own or order some online and have a try-on session in your bedroom. Buy Now 10. How to look put together in seconds For days when you want to look like you’ve made more of an effort (but haven’t had to), throw on a relaxed tailored blazer over any outfit combo. Buy Now 11. A Wear With Anything Knit This perfect-for-sofa-snuggles-sweater will also look great dressed up with a slip skirt or a pair of tailored wide-leg trousers when (and if) you decide to head back to work. Buy Now 12. The Dress-Up-Or-Down Slip Skirt If the clinginess of a slip skirt isn’t for you, then a pleated midi skirt can also work here. Layer it up with an oversized knit & blazer in the winter or t-shirts and vests in warmer weather. Buy Now 13. A Boot That Makes an Outfit A flat pull-on ankle boot with a chunky cleated sole is the ideal ‘mum on the run’ choice of footwear. From dresses to jeans and everything else in between, pair these boots with pretty much anything in your winter wardrobe, and when the summer comes, swap them out for a pair of flatform sandals. Buy Now 14. The Item That Fixes Everything Nearly unbreakable sunnies that hide tired eyes also make you look instantly stylish. If you’re short-sighted and your tired, dry eyes can’t handle lenses, I recommend Ace & Tate for a great selection of prescription-friendly frames. Buy Now 15. Your Stylish Throw On Cosy, comfortable and chic… a knitted dress is the ultimate ‘throw-on-and-go’ outfit. And in the summer, a maxi linen dress works in the same way. buy now Follow Sarah for More Style Tips Sarah Barlow, Stylist Follow
6 Ways to Help Your Child’s Mental HealthRead More For more tips follow @jennihoneyben on Instagram Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 February 2024 6 Ways to Help Your Child’s Mental Health The best thing you can do for your children is to listen, love and support them. So you’ve already got this. But if you want to encourage a happier care free future, these are some things that might help. 1. Follow These Expert Tips… Assess Their Needs Just because they demand chocolate for breakfast doesn’t mean they should have it. However, you will begin to notice a pattern of behaviour in your children. Maybe they’re irrational after nursery pick up and bringing a snack helps, or giving them an earlier bedtime routine means tantrums are averted. Another day pent up energy might mean they need to run it off or a calming bath helps calm their mood. When children are little they have no idea how to regulate their own moods. So noticing triggers can really help avoid upset. But go easy on yourself, it takes time to understand them and we’re not sure anyone ever fully gets it right. Make Time For Yourself Never feel guilty about doing something for yourself! The whole family unit functions better when you make time to fill your cup. And there’s no point prioritising everyone else and forgetting yourself, as your mood will eventually filtrate into the family. So make time for you. Block Off 10 Minutes Giving your child at least 10 minutes one-on-one time really fills up their tank. It also helps regulate their mood and aids independent play as they’ve had their time with you. Try to name it as your ‘special time’, so they know it has a start and a finish and follow their lead in terms of the activity you decide on, so they feel in control. Create a Calmer Bedtime If you’ve had an extremely busy day try factoring in an additional 30 minutes at night to make space for and to soothe their emotions. Children learn to self-soothe through us co-regulating and practicing with them time and time again. Making bedtime a calm time can really support their positive associations and provide them with tangible roots for promoting restful sleep. For more tips follow @jennihoneyben on Instagram 2. Gently Introduce the Idea of Thoughts and Feelings Through Books… KIND BY ALISON GREEN This inspiring picture book talks about the many ways children can be kind, from sharing their toys and games to making those from other countries feel welcome Buy now MY EMOTIONS ACTIVITY BOOK This free downloadable book is full of fun activities encouraging children to start gentle conversations about their thoughts and feelings. Download here 3. Let Them Know You’re Their Biggest Supporter… CLUB PATCHES Got a school or preschool starter? These badges are the perfect reminder to give or sew into your kids clothes or a coat they use for school. Let them know that they have absolutely got this and you’re with them every step of the way. And if they want to be connected to you all they have to do is look or touch the badge. Buy now 4. Reduce Screen Time… YOTO PLAYER Yoto is one of our favourite ways to reduce screen time and still entertain kids. They’re also ad free and microphone free so you can feel confident that your child is safe whilst they enjoy their pick of relaxing content that promotes mindfulness and wellbeing. Whether it’s familiar classics like Paddington, or Meditations to Moshi content, Yoga and Draw-Along activities, there’s loads of options to help children explore their choice of chill independently. Find out more 5. Encourage Physical Activities… Physical health vastly improves mental health and it can improve a child’s mood and also help build connections with other children and build up self-esteem. RUN OFF SOME ENERGY AT RUGBYTOTS Physical health is excellent for your mind, and there are tons of activities you can sign your little ones up to (too many, maybe), but Rugbytots is a great one for teaching them skills and letting them run off some energy. Find out more 6. Give Yourself Some Additional Help… HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR ANXIOUS CHILD, BY POPPY O’NEILL This supportive guide offers helpful solutions and effective coping strategies. From identifying the source of your child’s anxiety to helping your child practise calming techniques when they feel anxious and knowing when to seek support.
Reviewed by us: Breville (Sage) Barista Coffee MachineRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 February 2024 Reviewed by us: Breville (Sage) Barista Coffee Machine Reviewed by: TMC Co-Founder Lauren Webber Pros It saves you money You have coffee shop quality as you wake up Easy to use It’s life-changing There’s tons of You Tube tutorials to help you use it Cons Initial cost is high It’s noisy, so not great if you’re trying to be quiet It’s big and requires counter space You’ll miss it when you travel. What is it? A coffee machine with an integrated grinder, which enables you to produce barista-style espressos, lattes and cappuccinos at home. Unlike other high-tech coffee machines, this is extremely easy to use. *Please note this machine is made by Breville if you’re in the U.S. and Sage if you’re in the U.K. Overall Thoughts This coffee machine has secured a special place in my heart, ranking just below my children and husband. The thought of parenting without it is unthinkable. I love it so much it was one of the first things we bought when we moved to America. (*In the UK i had a Sage machine and over here it’s made by Breville – they’re sister brands, so it’s the same product). This machine has transformed my mornings. The convenience and quality of the coffee is unmatched. The smell that fills my kitchen each morning is another joy this machine brings to my daily routine. Any Downsides? As with any product, it comes with its share of drawbacks. The noise level can be pretty loud when grinding the beans. While it doesn’t bother me much, it’s worth noting you might have to wait for the baby to wake! Is it Worth the Money? The initial cost might seem quite a lot. But when I add up what I used to spend on daily coffee runs, the Breville coffee machine is a great investment. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, or just really tired all the time and NEED coffee, I’d say this is a a game-changer and worth every penny. Latest Deals From Retailers £649.99 View Now Tags coffee machine
10 Things We Actually Want for Valentine’s Day Read More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 February 2024 10 Things We Actually Want for Valentine’s Day 1. An Hour Alone at Home with Absolutely Nothing to Do. Like truly, properly alone. Imagine: a clean house in complete silence, washing basket empty, food shop done. And 60 whole minutes to sit in glorious silence, take a bath, or read a book not written by Julia Donaldson. 2. To Stay in a Hotel Sans Kids. No yelling in the middle of the night, the possibility of room service, day naps, a lie-in. And if we’re really feeling free – maybe even sex!!! 3. To Not Have to Think About All the Things Is there AI for the ‘Mental Load’ yet? And if so, can you just input it into our brains. 4. To Not Pick Food Up off The Floor Thinking about attaching mop heads to their feet tbh. 5. A Trip to The Cinema Or a lie down in a dark room. We’re not fussy. 6. A Spa Day The closest we get these days is our toddler driving their toy cars over our back. *2 out of 10 would not recommend. 7. A Good TV Box Set We Can Get Addicted To Netflix? Completed it mate. We’re now onto the archives. 8. Comfy Joggers That Pass as Daywear. We never thought we’d be those people. And here we are. 9. The Chance to Dress Up Somewhere hidden underneath the mum bun and stain-covered clothes, there’s a once-stylish fashionista dying to get out, *if she can be arsed. 11. To Have a Lie in That Doesn’t Sound Like World War II Why when it’s our turn, is everything SO F*CKING LOUD!?
What to Wear This WeekRead More Forever in athleisure. And, of course, brown is the new black. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 31 January 2024 What to Wear This Week Forever in athleisure. And, of course, brown is the new black. Fleece Zip Top H&M £37.99 Chunky Hoop Earrings Missoma £115 Matte Blush Wand Charlotte Tilbury £30 High Rise Leggings Varley £70 Spencer Socks Varley £18 2002R Trainers New Balance £130
The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in FebruaryRead More Save yourself some effort with three of our best finds… This Valentine’s Day, we’ve got a gift for every kind of love. *T&Cs: Single use code valid until 23:59 10th… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 January 2024 The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in February This month we’re in the mood for love, pancakes and a lot of planning for Mother’s Day me time… Put Yourself First, Not Pancakes… Don’t get us wrong, we love Pancake Day, but sometimes the pressure of doing all the days is too much. Just remember that small children have no concept of calendar dates, so if life gets in the way and you’re too tired to flip a pan, no one will know. Do it at the weekend, merge it with Valentine’s or forget the whole thing entirely. Life will continue… Heart Shaped Pan *for the mergers Find a Parent Pleasing Valentine’s Day Card… Save yourself some effort with three of our best finds… Baby Poo Card Etsy £2.50 Overly Competitive Scribbler £3.49 I’m Too Hot Scribbler £3.49 Speak to Your Love Language… This Valentine’s Day, we’ve got a gift for every kind of love. Words of Affirmation With Every Cuppa This one works for them and you. Shop Now Acts of Service With The Best Dinner Kits *Buys as a gift. Gets them to make it. The Best Restaurant Dinner Kits Receiving Gifts That You Actually Want Upgrade your car garage flowers with this timely and on-trend accessory. Shop Now Quality time at the Cinema A night at the cinema = quality time that includes popcorn, escapism and a necessary pre-screening trip to Nandos. Book that babysitter now. Argylle, In Cinemas Feb 1st Physical Touch Reawakened Need a little help reigniting the fire? Why not gift yourself a love egg this Valentine’s Day? Then give your partner the remote and use it in the cinema, in a restaurant, or in front of the ‘tele’! Yeah, we’ll leave the location to you. Shop Now Save Money This Mother’s Day Getting organised never felt so good! 15% off Biscuiteers Need some gift inspiration for your mum or a loved one? This month, we have an exclusive discount for Biscuiteers. Whether you want to send or receive their beautiful Mother’s Day Flowers Collection, or you fancy another beautiful themed box or treat. The Mum Club members get 15% off the site until March 10th. Simply enter the code MUMCLUB15 at checkout. Shop Now *T&Cs: Single use code valid until 23:59 10th March 2024, excludes E-gift cards. Maximum basket value £300, cannot be used on multi delivery checkout. 20% off Carrie Elizabeth Carrie Elizabeth makes the most beautiful and ornate jewellery, and you get 20% off with your exclusive TMC Members Perk. Just use the code MUMCEJ20 at checkout. Shop Now Book into a Swanky New Spa… Omorovicza, The Mayfair Institute New to Mayfair, Omorovicza’s London Institute is the most beautiful shop come spa. Housing treatments like, The Illuminating Skin Therapy Session, £200, which is excellent at reviving tired dull faces. It’s the perfect place to book for a very special treat. Find out more Eat All The Cake… Sketch, Afternoon Tea Whether you’re planning ahead for Mother’s Day or you and a pal need a much needed catch up, afternoon tea makes for the best excuse to scoff a load of cake. Sketch London is one of the best we’ve tried and has special sittings for Valentine’s and Mother’s Day. Find out more… Fill Your Cup… The Mum Club Mother’s Day Events So many of our clubs are hosting Mother’s Day events. From East Renfrewshire to Redbridge, our hosts are ready to put you first. Join us at your nearest club for a morning or moment that is all about you. Find Your Nearest Event Celebrate Your Inner Diva (or someone else’s) DIVA, V&A Museum Visit London’s V&A Museum this month and view the new DIVA exhibition. Celebrating the power and creativity of iconic performers, you can expect to see iconic imagery, costume and design. Highlights include Elton John’s opulent 50th birthday wig and outfit and dazzling costumes worn by Cher, Tina Turner, and Rihanna. Book tickets Take Your Little Ones to Liverpool… Little Liverpool Live near Merseyside? Head to the cities museum this month to find a hands-on fantasy world made for children. Crammed with fun activities for children under the age of six. It’s free to visit and makes for the perfect rainy (and educational) day out. Find out more Watch These… Completed Seasons 2 of The Tourist and The Traitors? And finished with Mr Bates vs The Post Office and Fool Me Once? It’s time for February to bring you some fresh new drama… One Day, Netflix, Feb 8th We loved the book and film and now the heart-breaking David Nicholls novel is getting the Netflix treatment as the series appears on our screens this month. Will it match up? Watch the trailer Masters of the Air Whether war stories are your thing or not, this new film from Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzman is sure to engage your attention. Watch now The New Look This emotionally thrilling 10-part series covers the life of Christian Dior. Covering everything from his rivalry with Coco Chanel to how he navigated the horrors of World War II and launched ‘The New Look’. Watch the trailer Mr & Mrs Smith, Prime Video, Feb 2nd Another film that’s now a series. Mr & Mrs Smith works on the same humorous concept as the Brad and Angelina movie but shows a couple that fake a marriage for a mission and then discover real feelings along the way. Watch the trailer Read This… Girls Just Want to Have Funds… Whether you want to master the art of setting realistic goals, demystify financial jargon and markets or finally get excited about your financial future, find all the answers you need and more with this comprehensive guide. Buy Now Listen to This… Louis Theroux and Paul Mescal We enjoyed listening and laughing at this brilliant interview where Louis quizzes Paul on the impact of Hollywood fame and what it feels like to be at the start of what looks like a very exciting career. Listen now
Reviewed By Us: By Rotation Clothing Rental AppRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 January 2024 Reviewed By Us: By Rotation Clothing Rental App Reviewed by: TMC CRM, Andi Venardos Pros It helps you make an income You can rent or lend designers clothes, shoes & accessories The app is easy to use It creates a positive impact on the environment Cons The platform takes a commission fee Potential for clothes to be ruined Overall thoughts I love this app, both as a lender and a renter. It was great when I was pregnant and needed clothes for special occasions. It meant I didn’t have to invest in a new item I possibly wouldn’t wear again. It has also allowed me to make money by renting out items from my wardrobe that I’ve never worn or only worn once. I also feel like I’m doing a little bit of good for the environment – or avoiding fast fashion, at least! What is it and how do you use it? By Rotation is an online clothing rental app where you can rent out your clothes, shoes and accessories or hire items from Net-a-Porter and other people at a fraction of the retail price. It’s got everything from Gucci handbags to Artipoppe baby carriers to Perfect Moment ski gear and 16Arlington dresses. Would you recommend it? Most definitely, it’s been an excellent way for me to make some extra money by lending out my clothes. It also allowed me to rent items with the changing of my body during my pregnancy and postpartum. The app is so easy to use, and I’ve had nothing but great experiences with lending and renting. Try Now
TMC Recipe of the week: Leftover Veg Pastry PuffRead More The Corner Plot’s recipe for using winter veg lefties… View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🐚Sophie Rushton-Smith (Dr 🐟) (@thecornerplot) Post author By The Mum Club Post date 25 January 2024 TMC Recipe of the week: Leftover Veg Pastry Puff Bought loads of veg and now it’s just sat in your fridge draw? Stick what you can in the oven, roast it, and then whack it on some pastry (*with cheese and tomato paste). And you’ve got yourself the most delicious and nutritious meal. A More Official Recipe… Ingredients – 1 pack Ready Rolled Puff Pastry – 200 g Feta Cheese, crumbled – 2 tbsps of Tomato Paste – 1 Courgette, ribbons – 4 Asparagus Spears, ribbons – Handful of Mixed Baby Plum Tomatoes, halved – Handful of Grated Cheddar Cheese – 1 tbsp Mixed Herbs – Salt and Pepper to taste Method – Preheat oven to 180˚C – Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lined baking tray. Spread tomato paste over the pastry, leaving a border of approx 1 1/2cm’s to allow the pastry to rise. – Add and equally scatter courgettes, asparagus, baby plum tomatoes, cheddar and feta. Sprinkle mixed herbs and season. – Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the pastry is golden at the edges. Allow to stand for 2-3 minutes before serving. Watch How to Make it… The Corner Plot’s recipe for using winter veg lefties… View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🐚Sophie Rushton-Smith (Dr 🐟) (@thecornerplot)
The Best Things to Shop at Zara Kids Right NowRead More Let’s be honest, we all love a bit of Zara and their kids’ collection is just as good as the grown-up stuff. But we always forget to look there. Save… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 25 January 2024 The Best Things to Shop at Zara Kids Right Now Let’s be honest, we all love a bit of Zara and their kids’ collection is just as good as the grown-up stuff. But we always forget to look there. Save yourself the scroll and shop our edit of all the best bits, from cosy waffle knits to super soft dungarees. Newborn Zara’s newborn selection is always worth a look for their muted colour palettes and modern take on traditional shapes. This week we’re loving everything from the powder pink ballet flats to quilted coats and the most adorable bouclé dungarees. Sweatshirt with Embroidered Bear Zara £14.99 Dog Print Leggings Zara £8.99 Ballet Wrap Knit Cardigan Zara £18.99 Fringed Leather Boots Zara £27.99 Bouclé Knit Dungarees Zara £22.99 Floral Print Dress and Briefs Zara £27.99 Textured Knit Cardigan Zara £22.99 Floral Dotted Body Zara £16.99 Cable-Knit Dungarees Zara £22.99 Leather Ballet Flats Zara £29.99 Interblock Knit Coat Zara £25.99 Puffer Jacket Zara £22.99 Toddlers From a bow-adorned sweater that, quite frankly, we’d like in our size, please to classic Breton stripes, Zara’s current edit of toddler pieces is amongst the best on the high street. Striped Shirt Zara £8.99 Denim Bow Hair Clip Zara £6.99 Super Comfort Stretch Trousers Zara £16.99 Retro Trainers Zara £27.99 Heart Sweatshirt Zara £15.99 Waffle Knit Sweater Zara £18.99 Low Fit Jeans Zara £16.99 Striped Sweatshirt Zara £14.99 Apple Embroidery Jacket Zara £27.99 Long Soft Dungarees Zara £18.99 Knit Sweater with Bows Zara £18.99 Paperbag Trousers Zara £16.99 Floral T-Shirt with Ruffles Zara £11.99 Floral Dress with Knit Vest Zara £27.99 Collared Dress with Trims and Bows Zara £25.99 Knit Sweater Zara £15.99 Textured Gingham Shirt Zara £16.99 Embroidered Knit Sweater Zara £22.99 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Congratulations! It’s Twins! Now What?Read More Real mum Madalaine McCarthy Wright, shares the things that have helped her… Eight months into twin mum life and things feel a lot less scary. But rewind a year, and… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 22 January 2024 Congratulations! It’s Twins! Now What? Real mum Madalaine McCarthy Wright, shares the things that have helped her… ‘Do twins run in your family?’ is a question that I get asked frequently. And the answer? That would be a firm no. So, to say I was shocked when the sonographer casually announced there was two, is an understatement. Eight months into twin mum life and things feel a lot less scary. But rewind a year, and I could have really done with reading this. Navigating the News… I hadn’t been in the greatest rush to have a baby. So finding out one was two, took some time to process. “I felt very overwhelmed at the prospect of carrying and birthing two babies and my biggest piece of advice for anyone processing the news of a multiple pregnancy is to do your research. It can be scary – you will now be classed as a high-risk pregnancy and should be under consultant-led care – but understanding what I needed to know when it came to possible risk factors, birth options and extra scans, led me to feel in control at a time that life felt quite the opposite.” Packing for Hospital… “Twins are usually born earlier than single babies, so I was advised to have my hospital bag packed by 30 weeks. The advice I dutifully ignored, leaving my husband to do the packing after my waters broke the day before my planned c-section. Luckily, I had prepared what I wanted to take, and it was the little luxuries that I included that made a 2-week hospital stay more bearable.” What to Pack for Hospital… “I packed a few luxuries paired with some essential high-waisted knickers that helped me feel more held together.” Eucalyptus Body Wash Nécessaire £26 Disposable Postpartum Underwear Frida Mom £14.99 Maternity Medical Grade Support Belt Jojo Maman Bébé £32 Nipple Balm for Lips Dr. Lipp £12 Button Up Short Pyjama Set Chelsea Peers £42 Tips on Recovery After Birth… “One of my twins needed two weeks under neonatal care post-delivery, so I was in hospital for longer than expected. This allowed me some extra time to heal from my c-section, but my biggest tip for recovering post-birth is to take it slowly. Easier said than done when you have two babies to care for, but keep on top of pain relief, move little and often, and try to look after yourself also!” “And that goes for after the initial postpartum period too. Your body has gone through a lot, and twin pregnancy is physically demanding– double the babies mean double the hormones for the first-trimester sickness and double the weight further into your pregnancy, which is why it’s essential to prioritise recovery where you can. At 14 weeks postpartum, I booked in with a women’s physiotherapist who assessed my pelvis, spine, pelvic floor and abdominals for Diastasis Recti and provided me with exercises for the areas that needed strengthening – something I’d recommend to anyone after birth.” How to Shop for Two and Save Money… “Babies are expensive and although twins mean double the babies, it doesn’t have to equal double the cost too. Facebook Marketplace is great for items that are in perfect condition. In some cases unused, and you can get baby clothes on Vinted that still have the tags on for a fraction of the price. Spend your money on the items that you’ll get lots of use out of and put your money you’ve saved towards something nice for yourself. Or loads of coffee.” The Best Things I Bought… “While you don’t need two of everything, there are a few items that I couldn’t have lived without. A prep machine for night time feeds was a lifesaver and mitigated having to boil kettles at 3 a.m. And I couldn’t have lived without my double-feeding pillow. I still use it when I need to prop them up for a few minutes, which means that I can feed them together, saving me time between feeds.” Twin Feeding Pillow Things for Twins £99.99 25 Washable Cotton Terry Cloth Wipes Cheeky Wipes £21.95 Bouncer Balance Soft Baby Bjorn £209.90 Double Pushchair Baby Jogger £509 Swaddles Set of 4 Aden + Anais £49.95 Perfect Prep Day and Night Tommee Tippee £109.58 (Sale) You’re not alone! “I’m the first to admit that I’ve struggled along the way. From the initial news to finding my pregnancy physically tough to caring for two babies at once, it can be hard and at times feel isolating. But there’s so much support out there.” “Twins Trust (https://twinstrust.org) is a great place to start and offers advice to twin parents through pregnancy and beyond. From first aid classes, to help with breastfeeding and sleep, they also offer antenatal courses as NCT classes don’t tend to apply for twins/triplets. On the other end of the birth spectrum is Bliss, a charity set up for parents of premature babies and with multiple births more likely to result in early delivery and time spent in neonatal care, Bliss can help to provide families with the support that they need. (https://www.bliss.org.uk).” “Finding a community of mums has also been a necessity for me and my local twin club has been a lifesaver. There’s nothing more reassuring than a room filled with 10 other twin mums (plus their 20 babies) to make you feel less alone in navigating the world of multiple motherhood. You can find your local twin club here (https://twinstrust.org/supporting-you/clubs/find-a-club.html).” How I Navigate Bedtime… “When it comes to bedtime, I’ve found routine to be crucial to everyone getting as much sleep as possible. My house is more ‘mum-led’ than ‘baby-led’, which isn’t for everyone. But I firmly believe that you know what’s best for you. I put my twins into their own room in separate cots at four months despite being told that I shouldn’t, and it helped hugely sleep-wise. But whether you choose to sleep train, co-sleep, rock, or feed to sleep –everyone will have an opinion, so you do what works best for you and your babies.” What Happens When They Both Cry… “Without a doubt, the hardest part of being a mum to twins has been only having one pair of hands. Hopefully, in time, this will mean that patience comes more easily to them, but it’s horrible only being able to console one at a time. My only tip is to take a deep breath, decide who needs you most in that moment and remind yourself that they are loved, cared for, and you’re doing your very best – a vital mantra for all mums to follow.” It Will (and You’ll) Be Better Than You Expect! “While the period leading up to the birth was an incredibly daunting time of my life, becoming a twin mum has been an initiation into the most special club that I didn’t know existed. If someone had told me that everything would be okay, I’m not sure I would have believed them. Don’t get me wrong it’s bloody hard. But a year down the line and having two babies has been the greatest gift imaginable. I’ve coped better than I expected, the lack of sleep hasn’t been that bad and I’ve loved every minute of being a mum to my twin little boys.”
Reviewed By Us: Stocked Frozen Food BlocksRead More View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lydia House 🏠 (Lydia Thompson) (@lydia_house) Post author By The Mum Club Post date 22 January 2024 Reviewed By Us: Stocked Frozen Food Blocks Reviewed by: TMC Editor Lydia House Pros Saves time and money Frozen blocks that help you create meals Can be bought as a one-off or subscription Homemade and so tasty Cons They’re not a complete meal and you need to add to them What is it? “Frozen homemade food blocks (for adults and children) that you keep in your freezer. Heat them in a pan or microwave and pair them with a carb or vegetable for an easy, quick, delicious dinner.” Overall Thoughts “One of my biggest bugbears of being a mum is that I’m now in charge of ALL the meals. My husband sometimes cooks, but generally, it’s always me. Often, I lose the will to think about what everyone is going to eat, or I’m too tired to even do it. These blocks are so good as you can keep them in your freezer. A brilliant backup when there’s nothing in the fridge. They’re also versatile, as you can serve them with anything you like, like eggs, rice, pasta or potato. I love that you cook with them, instead of them being a complete meal. That’s both costly and can go to waste.” How Does it Compare to Other Brands? “I’ve tried food boxes like Hello Fresh and Mindful Chef but often find it stressful to follow a recipe, even if it’s simple. I’ve also found that I leave to cook them until the very last date of expiry. While other fully made frozen meals are great, they can be expensive, and for me, they feel a bit indulgent. These frozen blocks are the perfect solution as they cut out the time it takes to make a delicious and healthy sauce, but I can use them whenever I want and tailor the meal I want to make. From baked eggs to burritos, the blocks work as a great base, resulting in a delicious meal every time.” Is It Good Value for Money? “It’s such good value. I used the signup offer and got 15% off, which meant my monthly subscription was £37. This means I get 4 packs a month. So, depending on what you use the blocks for, that’s at least 8 meals for approx £9. Which is amazing! I’d also say you’d get a lot more than 8. It just depends on what you’re using them for.” Buy Now Would you recommend it? “Yes, definitely! They have a range for both kids and adults, and I particularly like the Legendary Lentil Bolognese for the children, but really, it’s the adult range that really impressed us. The Sausage Arrabbiata makes the most delicious sauce for baked eggs or pasta, and the Smokey No’rizo has become my new favourite pasta sauce. We recently tried the Smoky Pork to make burgers, which was great too. My husband also loved the Tarragon Chicken. Everything we’ve tried so far is delicious, and I’m sure we’ll be subscribers for a very long time.” Watch Lydia’s Review… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lydia House 🏠 (Lydia Thompson) (@lydia_house) Where to Buy It Stocked Food Find out more
Cheap Meal Ideas For Under £5Read More When you’re feeling the pinch, it’s really easy to become uninspired. But cooking on a budget doesn’t have to result in pre-made pizza and cheesy beans on toast. There’s a… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 22 January 2024 Cheap Meal Ideas For Under £5 And no, it’s not Maccy D’s When you’re feeling the pinch, it’s really easy to become uninspired. But cooking on a budget doesn’t have to result in pre-made pizza and cheesy beans on toast. There’s a vast array of options out there – granted a lot of them centre around eggs. But guess what? We’ve rounded up some truly delicious (and thrifty) recipes, to give you the lift you need. Enjoy! Tasty Toad in the Hole An easy win for hungry tums. Serve with lashings of gravy and homemade mash. Recipe 3 Ingredient Pea Soup Vegetable soups are a winner when it comes to saving cash, and this one tops the lot as you don’t even need stock. Recipe Batch it up Bolognese Unless you’re a family of 12, this recipe should see you through around 2-3 separate meals. Recipe Super Cheap Mac n Cheese With change left over to buy and add some bacon, it would be rude not to. Recipe Thrifty Frittata Not only is this cheap but it takes minutes to make, and it’s sooo delish! No beetroot? Peppers and tomatoes work just as well. Recipe Money-Saving Mushroom Risotto A simple, yet delicious dinner that is only £1.57 a serving. Recipe Tags 2minuteread, newDesign, Parktimestrollandscroll
The Easiest and Most Effective Skincare RoutineRead More Whether you know your Hyaluronic Acid from your Niacinamide, your skin has probably changed during or after pregnancy…and you might now feel utterly lost about what to use. Tropic Skincare… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 16 January 2024 The Easiest and Most Effective Skincare Routine This skincare brand makes looking after your face simple. Whether you know your Hyaluronic Acid from your Niacinamide, your skin has probably changed during or after pregnancy…and you might now feel utterly lost about what to use. Tropic Skincare is an incredible brand that feeds the skin with nutritious, natural ingredients, and has a brilliant ethos that protects our planet.If that wasn’t enough, the brand also has a clever tool that makes choosing your skincare simple.Read on to find out more…. The Easiest and Most Effective Skincare Routine From cleansers to masks, these are the products you need and why… Cleansing : Should I be double cleansing? Cleansing isn’t that complicated; It’s just another word for cleaning. There’s no need to double cleanse or have different types of cleansers, unless your lifestyle causes your skin to require them. Living or working in a polluted city and wearing SPF or make-up are the main reasons for a good clean. If you live in the countryside, haven’t worn make-up in days and shower daily, you only need a light cleanse. We love: Tropic Smoothing Cleanser This creamy, gentle cleanser can be used morning and night, to remove make-up and impurities. We love the smell, but like most Tropic products, there’s an unscented version for supersensitive skin. Buy Now Serums: Which serum should I use? Serums are essential if you want to get better skin. Depending on your skin type, most mums wish for their skin to look less tired, wanting to reverse the 10+ years our kids have added to our faces. This is where a serum steps in. Your morning pals are Vit C for brightness, and Hyaluronic Acid and Peptides for plumping. In the evening, you want to reach for nourishing Peptides and Retinal for reducing signs of ageing. Use serums wisely and at the right time, and you’re on to a win. We Love: Glow Berry Brightening Serum This lovely brightening serum helps reduce pregnancy pigmentation (dark spots) and hydrates the skin. You can use it in the morning or at night. If you like to alternate your am and pm products, we recommend using it as part of your morning routine. That way, it will protect your skin from pollutants and free radicals all day. Buy Now Moisturiser: Do I need to moisturise if I use serum? Repeat after us: Never ever, will I ever forget to wear my moisturiser. Why? Because it’s your skin’s protection against everything. Your moisturiser is the layer that keeps your skin from being attacked by external aggressors which cause damage and ageing. These things can be as simple as wind and rain or as severe as UV rays and pollution. Your moisturiser keeps your skin plump, happy and protected, so never underestimate it. We love: Tropic Skin Feast Nourishing Moisturiser A great one for tired faces, this contains skin brightening Vitamin C and is full of antioxidants and ingredients that hydrate and protect your skin. Buy Now Should I wear SPF in Winter? If there’s no protective SPF factor in your daily face cream, then make sure you layer one on top. And yes, you should wear one even in winter! We love: Tropic Sun Day Facial UV Defence This lightweight, fast-absorbing SPF50 facial sunscreen sinks in immediately to protect you from daily UV damage. It’s also blended with Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate, tropical Banana Flower extract to calm, and Prebiotics to nourish your skin’s microbiome. Buy Now What About Masks and Exfoliating? We’re busy people, and while we’d love to be masking our faces every other day and having weekly facials. It’s just not realistic. So do what you can. Exfoliate weekly with a gentle chemical exfoliator, and mask when you can with a nourishing and hydrating formula. If you haven’t had time, don’t stress about it. As your kids get older, you’ll make more time for yourself, and your skincare regime can become more of a priority. For now, just keep it simple. We love: Tropic Comfort Food Deep Hydration This is great for hydration and has a lovely natural scent, which makes the whole experience so soothing. Not only is it good for tired, dehydrated skin, but it also soothes inflammation. Apply it as much as you like, whenever you want. *Keep it in the fridge once opened for freshness – seeing it all the time will also act as a reminder to use. Buy Now Still Feel Unsure About What Use? Figuring out what your skin needs can feel daunting, especially if it’s changed because of a hormone shift and you’re now looking at a total flip of your skincare regime. Stepping into a beauty hall or expensive shop (you know the one) can fill anyone with fear, as you unsurprisingly feel pressure to purchase. Tropic take all that stress away, not only because you can do it online, but because the brand also has a skincare selector, which helps you choose a routine containing all the basics you need. It’s the easiest way to pick new products. Read Our Review on the Tropic ABC Collection Reviewed By Us: Tropic Skincare ABC Collection If you want even more advice, Tropic has a Skincare Routine Finder for people who want to fix a skin issue like breakouts or dark spots. It’s also great for those who aren’t that clued up on what products they need or want. All you have to do is answer a few simple questions, and then Tropic will email you a bespoke list of suggestions. No obligation to buy, just good, honest and effective advice. Why We Love Tropic Skincare… There is no greenwashing with this brand; all of the botanicals used in their products are sustainably sourced, and the formulations are freshly made every day in Tropic’s Surrey Beauty Kitchen. With no artificial preservatives or toxins, you know the 100% natural and vegan recipes will be kind to your skin. Plus 10% of all profits goes to charities and good causes. What Tropic Do For The Planet Tropic is determined to do good beyond beauty. From every formula the brand perfects to every carbon emission it offsets, and every child’s education it funds (over 6mil days of education in the last four years). Tropic is always guided by its Infinite Purpose: to help create a healthier, greener, more empowered world. Most recently, Tropic ditched Black Friday for ‘Give Back Friday’, funding over 73,000 schooldays for children in the world’s poorest, most remote regions via their long-term partnership with UWS (United World Schools). Be Your Own Boss With Tropic Tropic empowers people to be their own boss with its ambassador programme, which provides the chance for flexible working, a minimum 25% commission, with no targets. And this January, Tropic is hosting 16 events around the country, where you can learn about the brand’s incredible ethos and Ambassador programme. Hosted by Tropic’s Founder and CEO, Susie Ma, your £5 ticket to the talk gets you a goodie bag featuring the brand’s newest innovation. So, even if you decide it’s not for you, you still walk away winning. Find out more CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TROPIC SKINCARE
Reviewed By Us: Martinhal Sagres, AlgarveRead More View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amy Lane (@wellness_ed) *Amy paid full price for the trip but did receive a small discount on the ‘half board’ upgrade. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 15 January 2024 Reviewed By Us: Martinhal Sagres, Algarve Reviewed by: Wellness Ed, aka Amy Lane Pros Family-friendly luxury More affordable than competitors The staff are so helpful Delicious food Short haul flight Cons Kids’ menu could be more varied Pram access to the pool is challenging What is it? “A family-friendly hotel in the Algarve, Portugal, with beautiful villas and apartments and the option to be self-catering, half board or full. It’s stylish but kid-friendly. There’s a choice of heated pools, so you can always hunt down a quiet-ish spot, and the village square is a toddler Mecca with slides & swings. There’s also a small sandy play area near the beach. Basically, it’s easy to entertain the children pre/post dinner while sipping vino.” Overall Thoughts “The beachy resort is set within a national park and has a sense of calm, despite 99% of travellers having a toddler or two. Maybe it’s the billowy grasses and plants that create the calm. Or maybe it’s because children can be children here, so there’s no pressure to ‘behave’? Who knows! What I do know is that parenting here felt relaxed. My husband and I tag-teamed the mornings and nap time, so we both could exercise most days — a rarity back home. The gym, although small, is light and has enough kit. There are also classes but nothing first thing, so we skipped those. We also loved hiring bikes and trailers for a bit of sightseeing.” Is it Good Value? “We compared the cost to IKOS, Domes and other resorts, and surprisingly, this was less expensive even with a drink, ice cream and a supermarket bill to pay at the end.” What’s The Food Like? “We loved it! All three restaurants serve a la carte at night, so there is no piling your plate with a carnival of food types (standard buffet behaviour). And if you choose half board, then children eat free plus you can order breakfast to your room.” Any downsides? Being picky, the walkway down to the main pool and beach is classified as wheelchair/pram friendly, but it’s a bit of a workout. It’s short but intense. The children’s menu felt quite the same across the resort, so although fresh and with healthy options, it did feel a little tired by day 7. Would you recommend it? “It was such a win for us, because of the combination of the outdoor play areas with the style and excellent food and flexibility of the hotel. Also the staff are always one step ahead and act like another pair of hands. We also loved that the flight is 2.5hrs so it felt manageable with a toddler who won’t sit still. This resort is genuinely child-centric, where all parents are fighting the same battles. There’s no judgment for big emotions. The staff let kids be kids. And there’s a wonderful Portuguese wine list!” Watch Amy’s Review… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amy Lane (@wellness_ed) *Amy paid full price for the trip but did receive a small discount on the ‘half board’ upgrade.