The Books to Prepare you for Birth and BabyRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 13 July 2023 The Books to Prepare you for Birth and Baby From baby sleep to postpartum care these are the books that helped us navigate the new mum era. 1. Best for Birth Birth can feel daunting, especially during an NCT show and tell tool class. Those implements are nawt what we want to see! And if you’re hoping for the calmest possible birth (aren’t we all), then it’s worth learning a few hypnobirthing techniques. This book is brilliant and explains the methods simply without making it seem unachievable. Jessica Aanensen – TMC Franchise Coordinator Buy Now 2. Best for Sleep “Sleep, or lack thereof, is one of the most significant issues for new parents. When you’re not getting any, it’s hard to think about anything else, and it can mean you’ll seek help from anywhere and anyone. But with conflicting information everywhere, it can be hard to know what to do. I found this book supremely helpful. Alison’s hands-on experience with thousands of babies gives you confidence that she knows what she’s talking about. And unlike many books, Alison looks at the whole picture and gives you options rather than one set rule for all.” Lauren Webber – TMC Co-Founder Buy Now 3. First Time Parent “I didn’t want info overload when I was pregnant so was happy I found this book, it is completely to the point and has easy-to-read sections I you can dip in and out of. I didn’t have a clue what I needed to know and what I didn’t but this book made me feel prepared without feeling overly stressed” Jen Williamson – TMC Designer Buy Now 4. Best for Troubleshooting “This book is a concise guide for new parents who want to know the basics and the science behind common parenting issues. It helps you understand different opinions and research on topics like co-sleeping and solid foods. It also encourages you to trust your instincts and know your child.” Andi Venardos – TMC Brand Partnership Assistant Buy Now 5. Best for postpartum “This is a brilliant book that all new mums should read. You go through a lot physically and mentally after birth, and often women forget to care for themselves. This is a brilliant reminder not to forget your health and wellbeing. Emma is a leading women’s health physio, and in this easy-to-follow read, she shares her brilliant expertise in an honest and relatable way. Offering helpful tips on recovery for your mind and body after birth. It’s so essential, it should probably be handed out when you’re discharged from the hospital.” Lydia House – TMC Editor Buy Now
The Best UK Stays for Babies and Toddlers Read More tinytravelship.com is a brilliant website packed with parent-pleasing stays all visited and verified by a fellow family. Making booking your next trip easy, you can filter holidays by the age of… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 July 2023 The Best UK Stays for Babies and Toddlers The constraints and costs of school holidays might not apply when you have tiny humans, but it’s still a mean feat to know where to go. So, we’ve linked up with our pals at Tiny Travelship to bring you their recommendations for the best place to stay with babies and toddlers. The Best Place for Your Baby’s First Trip New Park Manor, The New Forest Proving mums and dads can relax on holiday (instead of just parenting in a different location). Baby monitors are handed out upon check-in, allowing for a rare adults-only dinner or ‘five minutes peace’ in the spa. There’s an Ofsted-registered creche, which welcomes babies as young as 12 weeks and packing needn’t be a stress either as a long list of baby-related gear can be provided. Hotel staff will happily heat bottles and bring fresh milk to your door. Just had a little one? The genius ‘Baby’s First Stay’ experience is the ultimate 2-night getaway for new parents, and includes dinner, free childcare, a complimentary spa treatment and even a cute gift for your tiny traveller. Not just one for babes though, New Park Manor’s indoor and outdoor pool, cinema, games room, children’s library and playhouse makes it a family friendly fantasyland for kids of all ages. Find out more A Self-Catering Stay with Soft Play Flear Farm, Devon For the tiniest of travellers, a (beautiful) home-from-home can be a lot more appealing than a hotel (we’re thinking of size: cost ratios for a start). For a hassle-free family holiday at its finest, it has to be Flear Farm – a little slice of parent-pleasing heaven in South Devon which nails the needs of frazzled mums and dads. The self-catering cottages provide ample space (we all know babies do not travel light), and this, combined with hotel facilities, makes for a truly unique experience. Convenience is the name of the game here. There’s the indoor heated pool, hot tub and steam room open 24/7 – dreamy for those early morning wakeups; honesty shop stocked with a freezer full of gourmet chef-made meals; in-house spa treatments and all the baby essentials you could possibly need. Kids of all ages will love the giant indoor Playbarn, complete with soft play, slide, swing and cosy sofas. Find out more A Parent-Pleasing Spa Hotel Middleton Lodge, Yorkshire Staff treat mums like royalty at Middleton Lodge, a Georgian country estate in rural North Yorkshire. This honey-walled haven expertly recharges the most drained of parental batteries, thanks to the sublime spa menu, farm-to-fork meals designed to nourish sleep-deprived bodies and delicious dose of fresh air. Parents will want to check into the Tack Room, where the baby monitor will stretch to the onsite restaurant. As if that wasn’t dreamy enough, you don’t need to pack your own as the hotel will lend you one for free. From the pale painterly hues and open beams in the bedrooms, to the luxe bathrooms and blooming gardens, every design touch has been carefully considered to encourage maximum rest and relaxation Find out more Beach Hotel with Complimentary Childcare Watergate Bay, Cornwall There’s a pronounced parental exhale when entering Watergate Bay. If your shoulders don’t immediately drop when welcomed into this soul-nourishing sanctuary, the onsite therapists are more than happy to lend a helping hand. A breath of fresh air both figuratively and literally, expect contemporary, coastal interiors inside and a two-mile stretch of golden sand outside. Night feed fantasies become a reality, thanks to the complimentary Kids Club (6 months +), which allows parents to offload the mental load and truly rest. Travellers of all ages will be lulled soundly to sleep by the sound of the ocean waves, helped along by the remarkably comfortable beds Find out more The Perfect Place to Stay With a Newborn The Pig, Brockenhurst The Mum Club’s Editor, Lydia House, says, “We stayed here during my husband’s ‘Pat leave’ after we had our son Max. We enjoyed delicious food together, lovely walks around the New Forest and wholesome family time to ourselves. The hotel has a small spa and stunning grounds to relax and meander in. I also managed a solo cycle one morning while my husband looked after the baby. It was the first time I’d been out exercising on my own and it was utter bliss. We were a bit nervous about our baby crying in the night, so we booked one of the garden rooms, which was perfect as we were in the main house area but had our own exit and terrace. But all of the rooms are great, as they’re close to the main bar and restaurant, which means it’s the perfect place to go if you want to have a kid-free dinner but you’re hesitant about leaving them as it takes seconds to run back.” Find out more A Home From Home Hideaway With Hands on Help Bruern Cottages, Cotswolds If you’re trying to navigate the cost minefield of separate sleeping spaces in hotels, we’ve got the solution for you. It’s peace for parents and endless entertainment for kids at Bruern Cottages, which is a cluster of honey-hued homes reinventing self-catering stays with a hands-on twist. Inside the chintz yet chic (and oh so comfy) country homes, you’ll find fully equipped kitchens, squashy sofas, roaring fires and those all-important multiple bedrooms. One of the biggest pain points of family travel has to be the sheer amount of stuff you have to bring with you. Bruern Cottages helps keep your luggage light with their genius ‘parents peace of mind kit’. Alongside cots and highchairs, rooms are pre-prepared with bed guards, plastic cutlery and baby monitors. Find out more An All-Singing All Dancing Experience for All The Grove, Hertfordshire Whether you’re looking for someone else to entertain your children or activities to enjoy as a family, you’d be hard-pressed to find somewhere with more on offer than The Grove. This all-singing-all-dancing stately staycation has it all, from an excellent spa to laser clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, axe throwing, tree climbing, archery lessons, shooting experiences and more. The decor doesn’t disappoint either. The former dwelling of the Earls of Clarendon has been immaculately restored to combine classic yet contemporary interiors with 5-star service. A mere 20-minute train ride from central London, you can be sipping an evening beverage on your terrace in less time than it usually takes to commute home. Find out more The Ultimate Safari Staycation Port Lympne, Kent There’s no need to cross a safari off your bucket list just because you have tiny travellers in tow. Port Lympne is a 600-acre wildlife reserve bringing a slice of the Serengeti to the Kentish countryside. Aspiring Attenboroughs in the making can meet over 900 animals, ranging from lions and tigers to bears and even dinosaurs! Overnight guests can choose from mid-priced glamping pods through to boutique bedrooms and fantasy-fulfilling big cat lodges – super luxe design-led dwellings with panoramic windows overlooking the majestic mammals. Adventurers of all ages will be mesmerised by the guided safari tours and vast enclosures. Animals aside, the delicious dining is the icing on this British bucket list cake. With no compromise on style or sustenance, Port Lympne is a magical place for children and adults alike. Find out more The Most Fashionable Farm Stay The Farm at Avebury, Wiltshire It’s baby animals for them and seriously stylish interiors for you at The Farm at Avebury. This collection of impeccably refurbished self-catering stables has design-led decor straight from the pages of interior magazines. They also have the most comfortable beds! Making the most of the delicious local produce, guests are treated to farm-fresh bacon and sausages for their morning breakfast or succulent steaks for dinner. Parents themselves, the owners are well versed in the needs of tiny travellers, providing not only cots and highchairs but also nappy bins and baby baths. There’s also a beautiful communal courtyard outside the rooms, within baby monitor reach. Bottle-feeding lambs and free-range roaming in the sprawling Play Orchard is guaranteed to make fresh-air adventures fun. Find out more Best Luxe Stay for All Ages Gleneagles, Scotland Gleneagles, is an iconic institution for a good reason. Forget little luxuries. Every indulgence you could imagine is lavished on guests (of all ages) here. Bedrooms fit for royals are embellished with canopied beds, impossibly comfy velvet sofas and rich velvet furnishings. There’s a wealth of restaurants to choose from, including a two Michelin-starred offering. The sensational spa is one of the country’s best, as is the award-winning golf course. You’d have to stay a lifetime to fit in all the activities on offer, ranging from tree climbing and horse riding to archery and tennis. Little Glen, the Kids Club, is enchanting, with a fantasy treehouse and railway carriage. What’s more, you get two hours of free childcare per day. Thoughtful family-friendly touches include ‘turn down’ services for babies, miniature dressing gowns, slippers and Bramley toiletries. Find out more What is Tiny Travelship? tinytravelship.com is a brilliant website packed with parent-pleasing stays all visited and verified by a fellow family. Making booking your next trip easy, you can filter holidays by the age of your children, weaning and sleeping requirements, distance from the airport, and the details important to you. You can also give them a follow on Instagram for daily inspiration, itineraries, insider reviews and the chance to share your recommendations.
Reviewed By Us: Wren Breast PumpRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 10 July 2023 Reviewed By Us: Wren Breast Pump Reviewed by: TMC Brand Partnerships Assistant, Andi Venardos Pros Well made with spare parts Easy to assemble/dissemble Great value for money Great customer service Cons Maximum strength is 232mmHG Overall thoughts This is such a great product! The way the pump is designed allows me to do things while pumping without worrying about leaks. It’s comfortable, discreet and easy to clean. The battery lasts a long time, and I can go several sessions without recharging it. From packaging to product, everything has been so well thought out. What is it? And how do you use it? It is a hands-free and discreet breast pump that you place inside your bra to collect your milk. It comes with different-sized breast shields, so that once you’ve found the one that suits, you simply place the machine in your bra, align it with your nipple, and press go. The pump automatically turns off after 30 minutes, or you can just stop it manually when you have enough milk. Was it good value? Yes, I think it’s incredible value for money. Initially, I was sceptical as it was a brand I’d never heard of, and the price point was lower than its competitors. However, I’m so glad I supported a small UK business and purchased this. It’s a dream to use and comes with so many handy accessories like the 150ml BPA-free bottle and lids, different sizes of breast shield adaptors, nursing-bra adjusters, spare seal rings, spare valves, spare diaphragms, a USB charging cable, a bottle brush and even a free cotton carry bag. Would you recommend it? Most definitely, and I have already to all my friends on the breastfeeding/expressing journey. Product Specs – Free Wren Tote Bag – Leakproof – 2-hour battery life – BPA-free plastic – No wires – Charge with USB-C (cables provided) – Comes with three size flanges: 17mm, 21mm & 25mm – Spare valve – Spare diaphragm – Nursing bra adjuster – Spare 150ml BPA-free bottle and lid – Bottle brush – Spare seal rings – Less than 50 decibels – Available in white or green – Wren’s customer service team are always on hand to help you out with questions and set up Latest Deals From Retailers £94.99 View Now
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: 2 Ingredient Boursin PastaRead More Recipe from https://julieblanner.com/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 10 July 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: 2 Ingredient Boursin Pasta Ingredients 500g Pasta 1 Cup Boursin Method 1. Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat. 2. Prepare pasta al dente. 3. Drain pasta and return to pot. 4. Over low heat, toss pasta with boursin. Serve immediately. 5. Optional: Garnish with fresh chives, basil, thyme or parsley. Recipe from https://julieblanner.com/
What to Wear to a Wedding When You’re Pregnant or BreastfeedingRead More All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Finding an outfit for a wedding is hard enough,… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 July 2023 What to Wear to a Wedding When You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Finding an outfit for a wedding is hard enough, but the decision gets even trickier when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Thankfully we’re seasoned pros, and we’ve found you the best outfits for staying stylish, and comfortable, all day long and can be worn when pregnant and after if you’re nursing! From the trendiest chunky block heels that won’t hurt your feet to the most stylish muslins we’ve ever laid eyes on, we’ve got you covered with the perfect accessories. All that’s left to do is to find the canape man. Florals Forever New Blaire Pleated Midi Dress Next £110 Pearl Bead Shaped clutch Zara £45.99 Silver Heeled Sandals Mango £45.99 Silk Soft Muslin Swaddle 3 Pack Aden + Anais £49.50 Wrap Dress Reformation £348 Ditsy Floral Wrap Dress Bump & Milk £129 Balloon Sleeve Flowing Midi Coast £95.20 (Sale) Monochrome Maxi Dress Steve Madden £108 Before and After Nursing Dress H&M £39.99 CoCo Wrap Dress Never Fully Dressed £89 Cerise Pink Strapless Dress Cari London £150 Satin Swing Midi Dress Ghost £179 Prints Printed Dress with Ruffle Wrap Mango £49.99 Sparkle Plunge Dress Warehouse £111.30 Bow-embellished plissé-lamé Platform Sandals Loeffler Randall £400 Flap Chain Bag Mango £29.99 Pink and Orange Wrap Dress Never Fully Dressed £99 Tags breastfeeding
What to Wear This WeekRead More Looking for a stylish outfit that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a date night? We’ve got you! All products on this page have been selected by our… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 3 July 2023 What to Wear This Week Looking for a stylish outfit that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a date night? We’ve got you! Large Resin Claw Clip Accessorize £2.50 (Sale) Linen Blend Waistcoat All Saints £90 (Sale) Striped Raffia Clutch Bag Next £30 Rosa Ring Soru Jewellery £95 High Waist Jeans Zara £35.99 Leather Mules By Far £206.5 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: Frozen Yoghurt BarkRead More Recipe from https://feelgoodfoodie.net/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 3 July 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Frozen Yoghurt Bark Ingredients Yoghurt Fruit Granola Method 1. Spread the yogurt evenly over a lined baking sheet. 2. Top with chopped strawberries. 3. Top with blueberries or any other fruits. 4. Finish with granola and freeze until firm. Recipe from https://feelgoodfoodie.net/
Shop! The Most Flattering SwimwearRead More From figure-flattering one-pieces that hug your curves in all the right places, to trendy bikinis that showcase your style. Meet the new swimwear styles to make you feel amazing! All… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 June 2023 Shop! The Most Flattering Swimwear From figure-flattering one-pieces that hug your curves in all the right places, to trendy bikinis that showcase your style. Meet the new swimwear styles to make you feel amazing! Bikini Set (Sold Separately) Away That Day £154 High Waist Bikini Set (Sold Separately) Free People £176 (Sale) Shaping Swimsuit H&M £29.99 High waisted bikinis are great if you’re tummy concious. Try mixing up the styles and keep your bottom half simple and the bikini top patterned as it will draw the eye upwards. Seersucker Swimsuit Hunza G £160 Animal Print Bikini Set (Sold Separately) Marks and Spencer £50 A string bikini might seem scary but a tie strap bra is one of the best ways to naturally lift those boobs up and in. And bottoms are great at giving the illusion of length to your torso. Textured Bikini Set (Sold Separately) Arket £50 Signature Boy Short Set (Sold Separately) Zulu & Zephyr £128 Seersucker Stripe Swimsuit Arket £55 Patterns are an excellent tool for deflecting attention away from lumps and bumps. And stripes in particular are great for lengthening the body. Bikini Set (Sold Seperately) WAT The Brand £150 Shaping Swimsuit H&M £29.99 Tummy control swimwear is no longer dull and dowdy. Head to H&M and Accessorize for the win. Eva Standard Waist Two-Piece You Swim £126 Reversable Swimsuit Never Fully Dressed £59 Striped Seersucker Swimsuit Hunza G £155 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
The Hotlist – The Best Things to do in JulyRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 June 2023 The Hotlist – The Best Things to do in July Step Inside This New Spa The Nici Spa, Dorset Feel like you need a break? Then why not check in to The Nici Spa, which has just opened its doors in Dorset. The world-class spa is a vibrant yet tranquil space, featuring a bespoke menu of Oskia treatments alongside an 18m heated indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, aromatherapy sauna and crystal energy loungers to sink into. Find out more Join Us at a Book Launch SR Nutrition Coffee Club – Kensington & Chelsea We know all too well that feeding the family healthy, creative, home-cooked meals can be a struggle. That’s why we’ve teamed up with leading baby and child nutritionist and double Sunday Times bestselling author, Charlotte Stirling-Reed to launch her new book, How To Feed Your Family. With busy schedules and different tastes to navigate, it can seem much easier to fall back on the easy wins or ready meals. If you can relate to this, you are not alone and you do not want to miss this event! Book Now Walk with TMC & Superdrug Mobile Superdrug Mobile Walking Club Event – Reigate & Banstead Join us for an extra special walking club in partner with Superdrug Mobile for our ‘Just to say I LOVE YOU’ campaign. It’s firstly a walk for you! Here at TMC, we know that getting out of the house with little ones isn’t always easy, but you can’t underestimate the power of some fresh air and chats with likeminded women to make you feel fabulous. But also, how great are mums? Mum mates, the ones we call Mum and YOU. We believe at The Mum Club that we simply don’t get told enough how great we are and how LOVED we are. So, we have partnered with Superdrug Mobile to do just that. Book Here Plan Your Next Night Out The London Cabaret Club ‘Copacabana’ at The Bloomsbury Ballroom “If you’re looking for a night out that sparks absolute joy, the Copacabana Cabaret is worth checking out. From the moment I stepped inside, the energy was contagious, and the performances were out of this world, with sensational singing and dancing. I loved jumping up and dancing with the performers, and it felt so good to let go and forget everything for the evening. We were served delicious food and drink. And yes, it’s expensive, but this is a mesmerising show not to be missed.” Style & Content Creator, Luzaan Shaw Book now Take Your Kids on a Retreat Theta Retreats Theta Retreats are restorative experiences made for mums and their children. From rewilding retreats where kids experience forest schools and mums get a chance to meditate and chill to a sun-soaked Menorca adventure with exceptional food, yoga, cacao ceremonies and cinema nights. Whichever you choose, expect beautiful, nourishing meals for adults and children—bonding time spent on the beach or exploring woodlands. And time to yourself to rest and restore. Book now Shop and Play at John Lewis John Lewis’ New Kids Trail Concept Need to get some new bits for your kids? Make a day of it at John Lewis, where their exciting new kids’ trail concept has reached its Oxford Street store. Expect fun installations, including a monster hunt, a magic reading corner and a rocket-launch-themed play area to keep young visitors entertained while they shop with you. Not near London? The concept is already in Horsham and is set to reach Liverpool and Milton Keynes. Shop John Lewis Why You Should Come to Camp Bestival Camp Bestival Shropshire “Our Camp Bestival experience in 2022 was epic. There was SO much to do! We loved participating in the science experiments, crafts and the family rave tents. And contrary to myth, we showered, used flushable toilets, and ate gourmet food. As a family of 3, we chose a 4-birth tent with blackout windows. Festival mornings are early enough, but quality earplugs and blocking out the sun made it easier. And this year, we’ll plan and book ahead as we missed out on a few things. We want to paddle board, practice yoga and open water swim. Dancing together in the sun was just the best feeling, and when our little girl went to bed, we enjoyed chilled-out drinks outside our tent whilst listening to the music from the main stage. We can’t wait to return!” TMC Knutsford Host Alex Molloy Find out more Take the Kids to a Cheese Fest Cheese & Chilli Festival “Don’t be put off by the name if cheese and chilli aren’t your favourite. Of course, it helps as there’s a lot of it to try and buy! But this festival offers so much more, with various exciting activities for kids and adults, from face painting and balloon twisting to interactive games and bouncy castles. And the food isn’t just spice and blocks of dairy. There’s a wide variety on offer, which pairs nicely with brilliant live music and alfresco drinking.” Style & Content Creator Luzaan Shaw Find out more Fill Your Basket at This New Farm Shop The Cotswold Guy We bloody love a farm shop. We’re not sure if that’s a sign of old age or if we just appreciate the finer things in life. *We’ll go with the latter. And this new opening created by The Cotswold Guy is about to exceed all great expectations. From the creators of David Beckham’s preferred sausage roll, comes a store that delights all senses. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the best produce you can find, delicious coffee, local wine and more. There’s also a café, which makes it perfect for family trips. And if you’re unable to get to the Cotswolds, you can purchase some of the items on their online store. Find out more Give Yourself a Good Scrub Cowshed Salt Scrub & Massage (90 min) “I live in Jersey, and when I pop back to London now and again, I like to treat myself to some of the best things it has to offer. And in my opinion, Cowshed is one of them. This time, I booked in for a 90-min scrub, which completely blew my mind. I left feeling relaxed but revived. A brilliant combination of massage and exfoliation gives your skin the best glow, and the products smell so good. It’s expensive, but I really felt like it was worth the money.” TMC Co Founder Lauren Webber Book now Read this… Enough About the Baby This is an honest account of the first year of motherhood that speaks to you like a best friend. There’s a lot to digest, and possibly one you dip in and out of, depending on which section relates to you. We found the pull-out tips helpful, and if you’re lacking in time, you can read some of these instead of the whole section. While it’s important to be honest, we found certain parts a little downbeat and not all the experiences applied to us, but we appreciated the honesty and skipped past them. Motherhood is undoubtedly challenging, but it can be a positive journey too! So, if you are in the thick of it and you’re finding things difficult, join your nearest The Mum Club event. At every event you’ll find a network of women in the same boat as you, all waiting and willing to share similar stories and shoulders of support. Buy now Listen to this… Partners in Crime Podcast Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling present this hilarious podcast that uncovers infamous and bizarre cases in true crime. Listen now Watch these… Glamorous We all know the Sex and The City reboot ‘And Just Like That’ is back, but if you’re missing Samantha, you can add this one to your watch list too. Glamourous is a series that follows Ali, an inspiring makeup artist who lands an internship at a top beauty company owned by Madolyn Addison (Kim Cattrall). Expect a shedload of cheese, drama, laughs, and of course, glamour! Watch now The Full Monty It came out last month, but we’ve only just started watching it, and we love it. An easy watch that everyone will enjoy. Watch now New Bluey – 12th July Got a Bluey fan? Ten new episodes will debut on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland on 12th July. Watch the trailer Barbie – 21st July It’s finally time! Get your girls together and organise a date for later this month. Watch the trailer Tags hotlist
7 Ways to Feel Like You AgainRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 26 June 2023 7 Ways to Feel Like You Again The TMC team share what helped make them feel like them again. 1. Get Out of the House “Pre-kids working from home was never an issue as I would socialise or exercise around my work. But when we moved out of London and I returned to work, I found being at home stifling. It’s so easy to choose a chore over something that serves you when you’re always in your house. So forcing myself out has really helped. I now make sure I do just one day at home, and then the others are split between my local health club and one day up in the city. Basing myself in a place where I can exercise around work and have lunch and coffee made for me has enabled me to fit in more me-time. And on those days, I feel more like a person and less like a mum. Being in the city one day a week has given me back a buzz, and recently I’ve started heading up even earlier and doing an old spin class that I used to do before I had babies, and I’m shocked at how happy it’s making me.” TMC Editor, Lydia House 2. Go Dancing with Friends “Growing up, my parents were strict, so I didn’t ever go out dancing, which meant, in comparison to most, I was late to the game. And just before I got pregnant, I started to really enjoy going out and dancing. This was one thing I was keen to get back to, and it is sometimes hard when you have young kids and fear a hangover. But it doesn’t have to revolve around drinking, and I now make sure I plan nights out with friends where we dance and laugh, and it makes me feel alive and like me pre-kids.” TMC Style and Content Creator, Luzaan Shaw 3. Be More Organised “I have found making a weekly schedule with my partner is the best way to get things done fairly. We even rotate our weekend lie-ins and have a fitness schedule that enables us to work out at specific times. If he is away- which is a lot, I either plan a home workout or I book a sitter to watch the kids while I go. Exercise is not only self-care for me, but it makes me a better mum, friend, and wife. Another thing that helps me is my diet. Not restrictive, but wholesome great food is vital, as everything goes out of whack when I eat processed shit.” TMC Co-Founder Lauren Webber 4. Get Dates in Your Diary There’s nothing that fills my cup more than chats with good friends. Make the time to organise your social calendar. Even though it can be hard to pin them down, the date always comes around quickly and is always worth it. It’s also important not to forget the person you had your baby with too! Date nights are a great way to reignite the spark if it’s fizzling and to do something that’s not so ‘mum and dad’. My husband and I get a babysitter or ask a grandparent to look after the kids at least once a month. Otherwise, it’s very easy to end up socialising without each other and only ever seeing them as a parent – which is not good. Co-Founder Jessica Lawes 5. Go to a The Mum Club Event “There’s nothing like the feeling you get after leaving a The Mum Club event. It’s why I wanted to be part of the company, as the events made me feel so good. They’re centred around women and put you at the focus, and going to one made me feel like a person again. And, of course, you don’t have to dress up or put on make-up, but since I spend most of my time with my hair up and in scruffy clothing, I loved having a reason to do just that.” TMC Designer, Jen Williamson 6. Make Time for Yourself “I’ve always been complimented on my wardrobe, and wearing fabulous clothes makes me feel fabulous. And while you need to just wear whatever the hell you want when you’ve had a baby. The dowdy outfits I was throwing on after birth were making me feel low. So, in a bid to boost my mood, I’ve now started to plan my outfits and I’ve found some new styles that suit me. To help save time each morning, I leave them out the night before. And of course, I had to do a fair amount of online shopping first but prioritising this aspect of my life has improved my self-esteem and has let a little bit of the old me return. And that is worth every penny!” Andi Venardos, TMC Brand Partnerships Assistant 7. Clear your Head “Whether it’s swimming, yoga, running, or cycling, I think using some form of exercise that allows you to have a clear mind is so helpful. I go running, and it gives me such great headspace. I whack my gym gear on, put on some music, and just go. As I run, I think about my week, plot things out, or just enjoy the music. And if I’ve got pent-up energy from something that’s happened at home, like a row or kids playing up, it releases that too. I find when I come home, I’m happier and more able to mum as I’ve taken that time out for me.” TMC Franchise Coordinator Jess Aanensen
Reviewed By Us: Britax ADVANSAFIX i-SIZE Car SeatRead More Buy now *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 19 June 2023 Reviewed By Us: Britax ADVANSAFIX i-SIZE Car Seat Reviewed By: TMC Editor Lydia House Pros Installation is easy Suit 15 months to 12 years Study and well made Fabric covers made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles. Easy and safe click in and comfortable for child Cons It’s fairly expensive “It was remarkably easy to install” Overall thoughts This is a brilliant car seat that’s incredibly easy to install. We needed a new car seat for my 18-month-old son, and we were sent this to try. We’d already purchased another brand for our 3-year-old, so it was interesting to see how this compared. The installation was so much easier, and I needed zero help, which was a surprise as I’ll be honest, I’m not the best at this kind of thing. The instructions can be found via the QR code on its tag, which I liked as it minimises the seat’s packaging. Its design makes clicking in a doddle, and I feel reassured that my son is safe and secure as it is much sturdier than our other seat. You can tell it’s incredibly well made and built to last – which is handy, seeing as you can use it up to a whopping 12 years old! Was it good value? It is an expensive addition, but considering it seats up to 12 years old, it’s pretty good value. The inserts also come off really easily and are simple to put back on. One quick wash in the machine and it looks brand new. Our other seat has cushion pads that are already falling apart and it may have been £60/80 cheaper but you can see why. Would you recommend it? Yes, I would. I like that it comes in lots of colours. We just went for a basic black but it has a cool green trim and it looks really smart in our car. It’s easy to install as I already mentioned and my son goes in with ease and click in is simple. Product specs: Dimensions: H60 – W83 x D44 x 47 cm Weight: 11 kg Forward facing installation: 76 – 150 cm Buy now *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: 15-Minute Crispy Chicken (GF) (DF)Read More Recipe from https://rachaelsgoodeats.com/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 19 June 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: 15-Minute Crispy Chicken (GF) (DF) Ingredients 3 large organic chicken breasts trimmed, tenderized, and sliced in halves 1.5 cups Almond crackers 2 tbsp ground flaxseed 1 tsp dried rosemary 1/4 tsp pink salt 1 pasture-raised egg 3 tbsp avocado or coconut oil Method 1. In a food processor or blender, add crackers, flaxseed and spices. Pulse until it reaches a flour-like consistency. Pour mixture in a deep dish bowl. 2. In a separate deep dish bowl, whisk one egg. 3. Once chicken has been trimmed + tenderized (pounded down to the same thickness), create your assembly line of chicken, egg, and cracker breading. Using tongs or a fork, dip chicken in egg wash, making sure to cover the entire breast, then let excess egg drip off before transferring to breading mixture. Cover entire breast in cracker mixture, then transfer to clean plate. Once all chicken has been breaded, heat your large skillet with avocado oil on medium. 4. Transfer chicken to skillet and let cook until golden brown on each side, about 4-6 min. Can turn down the heat and cover to allow center of chicken to fully cook. Once all golden brown, let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy! Recipe from https://rachaelsgoodeats.com/
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Veg Packed PizzaRead More Recipe from: https://www.zarahome.com/us/recipes-n1469 Post author By The Mum Club Post date 19 June 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Veg Packed Pizza Ingredients 1 pizza base 1/2 bunch of asparagus 1 green radish 100g ham 1 beetroot Chioggia 1 sweet potato 1 jalapeño 1 red onion 1 cooked beetroot 1 clove of garlic 200g Parmesan Herbs for decoration 1 mozzarella ball Olive Oil Method Slice the vegetables very thinly and roast them on a grill or in the oven with olive oil. Mash the cooked beetroot and mix with the parmesan and the garlic clove to obtain a paste. Place the pizza base on a baking tray and spread the beetroot cream onto it. Preheat the oven to 250 ºC. Add the mozzarella, ham, sliced onions and roasted vegetables and bake in the oven for 12 minutes. Recipe from: https://www.zarahome.com/us/recipes-n1469
The Do’s and Don’ts of Co-Sleeping Read More We’ve all been there (usually at 3 am), and the only thing that will settle your baby is to fall asleep next to you. Nearly 50% (if not more) of… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 19 June 2023 The Do’s and Don’ts of Co-Sleeping We’ve all been there (usually at 3 am), and the only thing that will settle your baby is to fall asleep next to you. Nearly 50% (if not more) of all families will have their baby in bed with them at some point in the first few months. But why is co-sleeping such a taboo? And is it safe? We spoke to Paediatric nurse and Sleep Consultant Emily @soundsleepcoach to find out the facts. Is it Illegal to Co-Sleep with Your Baby? There are no laws regarding co-sleeping, but there is guidance from NHS England and various charities to support safe sleep. For years the advice has been ‘never bedshare’, whereas this has recently been updated to ‘be safe if you share a bed with your baby’. This helps to take the pressure off parents. Ultimately, it may not be a parent’s choice to co-sleep, but if it is the only thing that helps to settle their baby, parents shouldn’t feel ashamed. Instead, they should be taught how to do so safely. The Do’s and Don’ts of Co-Sleeping – Do ensure they’re on a firm, flat mattress lying on their back – Don’t have any pillows or duvets near them – Don’t have any other children or pets in the bed at the same time – Don’t share a bed with your baby if they had a low birth weight (less than 2.5kg or 5.5lb). – Don’t share a bed with your baby if you or your partner smoke, have had 2 or more units of alcohol, have taken recreational drugs or have taken medication that causes drowsiness. Is There a Crib That Helps With Co-Sleeping? We love Graco’s Sweet2Sleep crib because it has a dropdown rail that you can quickly operate using only one hand. Great for those middle-of-the-night moments when you’re completely exhausted. Enabling a quick and easy co-sleeping solution that helps you to keep your baby close and safe all night. Not only that, it’s lightweight and locks into place easily as it has 11 different height adjustments, so it should suit any bed frame – high or low! Sweet2sleep Bedside Crib What Should My Baby Wear When Co-Sleeping? A sleeping bag would be recommended as you do not want any pillows or duvets near the baby to protect them from SIDS. As the baby would not have their ‘feet to foot of the cot,’ then there is a higher chance that they could slide down the bed when co-sleeping, so ensure there are no loose blankets nearby. Can You Co-Sleep With Twins? If So, How? You may decide to co-bed your twins in the early weeks and months. This simply means that your babies are put into a cot together. The same safe sleeping guidance should be followed for this: putting your babies on their backs to sleep, using a firm flat surface, and keeping them smoke-free. Key safety points for co-bedding include: • Only place them side by side in their cot in the first few weeks when they can’t roll over or onto each other. Ensure they are not too close, so they don’t obstruct each other’s airways and breathing. • Once your babies have learnt to roll, it would be safer to put them in their own sleep space. • Avoid putting them both in one Moses basket, as this would be too small and may cause them to overheat. If you want to co-sleep with your twins in your bed, this can be riskier. It is important to note that twins are often born prematurely and have a low birth weight. As mentioned previously, this makes co-sleeping a higher risk for SIDS. If they are a vulnerable infant, they should sleep in their own sleep space. www.soundasleepcoaching.co.uk Visit Graco Villiage CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GRACO
