TMC Recipe of the Week: Pasta alla Vodka

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 10 February 2023

TMC Recipe of the Week: Pasta alla Vodka

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 banana shallot or ½ onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
¼ tsp chilli flakes
100g tomato purée
5 tbsp vodka
100ml double cream
200g penne or rigatoni pasta
30g grated parmesan or vegetarian alternative, plus extra to serve
small handful of basil leaves, to serve

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan or casserole dish. Add the shallot and a large pinch of salt and gently fry over a low heat for 10 mins or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and chilli flakes and cook for 30 seconds. Stir through the tomato purée, cook for 2 mins, then stir through the vodka and cook for 3 mins. Quickly stir through the cream to combine, then remove from the heat.

2. Cook the pasta in salted water following pack instructions. Drain and reserve 150ml cooking water. Add roughly 50ml of the water to the tomato sauce, then tip in the pasta and cheese, tossing everything together over a low heat until well coated and glossy (loosen with a splash more of the cooking water if it’s a little dry). Season to taste, then serve with a sprinkling of the extra parmesan, a good grinding of black pepper and the basil leaves scattered over the top.

Recipe from https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/

10 Things That Are Different Now We Have Kids

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 9 February 2023

10 Things That Are Different Now We Have Kids

1. Sunday Morning

Pre-Baby: You wake up naturally at 9 ish am, do some yoga and head out for brunch with friends. Mimosa anyone?

Post-Baby: You’re up, downstairs and on your third cup of tea by 8 am. After making breakfast, clearing up and putting the baby down for their nap, you flick on the TV to watch Sunday Brunch before realising it’s not on for another TWO HOURS!

2. Going to the Cinema

Pre-Baby: The cinema was a spontaneous and relatively cheap activity, the perfect way to kill a few hours on a rainy Saturday afternoon or post-dinner on a random Friday night.

Post-Baby: You can now only attend showings between 7 pm (their bedtime) and 9 pm (yours). You spend the entire time worrying that every bang will wake the baby, before remembering you’ve actually left the house. After tickets, snacks and paying the babysitter, the whole thing costs more than your monthly gas bill, but you’ll still feel giddy that you went out.

3. Getting Ready in the morning

Pre-Baby: Post-workout shower followed by a six-step skincare routine, you whisk up a matcha latte, while checking your emails and catching up on the news.

Post-Baby: The process is reminiscent of a formula one pit-stop. Only you’re the only crew member helping. Your kids arrive at nursery with 2 x everything they need. You turn up to work with very badly drawn eyeliner and hair that’s in definite need of a wash.

4. Flying on a Plane

Pre-Baby: Out-of-office on, you pick up a neck pillow and a facemask from duty-free before getting comfy with a glass of fizz and your first book of the holiday. Bliss.

Post-Baby: Despite waiting until the very last moment to board, your toddler waits until the seatbelt sign is on before doing the largest poo of their lives. Attempting to change them in the inexplicably small aeroplane toilet is so strenuous your Apple watch asks you if you’ve started a workout.

5. Google Search History

Pre-Baby: ‘Spa hotels in Bali.’

Post-Baby: ‘Can I lock my toddler in their room?’.

6. Birthday Parties

Pre-Baby: A day spent drinking cocktails with the girls, followed by dinner and dancing, plus brunch the next day for a thorough post-party debrief.

Post-Baby: Kids’ birthdays: You make friends with other mums based on their predictability to have wine at their children’s parties. Yours: You now drink a LOT earlier and fully confirm with your partner that they will be gifting you a very large lie-in the following day. Or the second option: you book a hotel and don’t come home.

7. Swimming

Pre-Baby: A leisurely ten lengths post-gym or a relaxing holiday past-time involving a lilo.

Post-Baby: You arrive poolside of your local leisure centre sweating profusely, having carried the car seat, two bags and the baby into a changing room heated to the temperature of the actual sun. You find out the hard way that swim nappies don’t absorb liquid as a stream of warm wee runs down your leg from the wetsuit-clad baby balancing on your hip. It takes twice the time to get ready versus the time spent in the pool, which you conclude is not worth shaving your bikini line for.

8. Illness

Pre-Baby: You wake up feeling lousy. Drop your boss a text telling them you won’t be in today before crawling back under the duvet to sleep it off.

Post-Baby: Your kids give zero fucks if you’re ill and still require feeding/changing/carrying/entertaining as usual. This is incredibly irritating, given it’s 100% their fault. You power through taking every drug you’re allowed. And if things get really bad you call the grandparents for emergency assistance and hope that the latest bug doesn’t kill them.

9. Meeting Up With Friends

Pre-Baby: ‘Hey, do you want to go out tonight? Come round to mine in an hour. Bring wine?’

Post-Baby: ‘Hey, sorry I had to cancel our meet-up at Christmas! Are you free next June?’

10. Seasonal Events and Everyday Activities.

Pre-baby: Let’s be honest, even Christmas Day had started to feel dull, and we were pretty over the 3-day hangover at Easter.

Post-baby: Mundane stuff like taking the bins out, going to shops or getting the car washed is now a fun new activity for your kids. And don’t get us started on seasonal events like Christmas. Experiencing all the stuff we were very much over through a new set of tiny eyes is one of the best things about being a parent. Sure, they’ll make it f*cking stressful, but at some point, it will have been very cute.

TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Funfetti Heart Biscuits

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 6 February 2023

TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Funfetti Heart Biscuits

Ingredients

220g unsalted butter, softened
200g caster sugar
1 large egg, beaten
2 tsp vanilla extract
400g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
100g dark chocolate
100g white chocolate
coloured strands, to decorate

Methods

1. Whisk the butter and sugar in a large bowl with an electric whisk for 2 mins until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and whisk until combined.

2. Add the vanilla and flour and mix with a wooden spoon to form a smooth dough. Cover the bowl with clingfilm and chill for 10 mins.

3. Preheat the oven to gas 4, 180°C, fan 160°C. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 2mm thick. Cut out biscuits using a 6cm heart-shaped cookie cutter. Reroll the trimmings as necessary until the dough is used up. Place the biscuits on baking sheets lined with nonstick baking paper and bake for 12-15 mins until pale golden and turning crisp around the edges. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

4. Melt the dark and white chocolate in separate heatproof bowls each set over a small pan of simmering water. Dip half the biscuits halfway into the dark chocolate and sprinkle the chocolate-coated side with coloured strands. Repeat with the remaining shortbread biscuits and white chocolate. Place on a wire rack to cool and set. The decorated biscuits will keep for a week in an airtight container.

*Tip

Freezing and defrosting guidelines (undecorated biscuits only)

In order to enjoy optimum flavour and quality, frozen items are best used within 3 months of their freezing date.

Recipe from https://realfood.tesco.com/recipes/funfetti-heart-biscuits.html

The Health Clubs That Look After Your Kids

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 5 February 2023

The Health Clubs That Look After Your Kids

Whether it’s to workout or just have an uninterrupted shower or a coffee.

These health clubs are here to support you in every which way you need.

David Lloyd Clubs

There are over 100 David Lloyd clubs in the UK. So there’s bound to be one near you! And most of them have creches.
They’re all pretty amazing tbh but some clubs, like Kings Hill (near Maidstone), have outdoor swimming pools with waiter service to sun loungers. Which means in the summer you can have a mini holiday (drink rose) for 1-2 hours, while someone else looks after the kids.

Find your local club

Ribby Hall Spa and Health

This is one of the most amazing spas we’ve ever been to. And club members also benefit from their free weekday creche. It’s made for pre-school children from 6 months+.
The perfect treat for mat leave or if you work part time or for full time mums. Just pop them in for a few hours and slip off to chill (/sleep).

Find out more

Club Company Country Clubs

It sounds so fancy to be part of a country club doesn’t it? And to be honest it is. They have 15 in the UK and each one combines a traditional golf environment with state-of-the-art health and fitness facilities that the whole family can enjoy. Most have creches and kids classes, which are included in a very reasonable membership. The adults one is a little more pricey.
We have visited two of their clubs;
The first is Nizels in Sevenoaks, Kent, a premium location, which has a beautiful spa, a hairdresser, a dedicated wellness team (including a Mummy MOT and Women’s health practioner).
The other is Chartham Park, West Sussex, which has a great selection of classes for both you and the kids, is extremely welcoming and the creche staff are so friendly.
The cafe and gym both boast the most stunning views of the golf club and are a great place to relax, workout or have a coffee in peace.

Find your nearest club

Little Space – Third Space Islington

Not only does this swanky London gym have a dedicated children’s area with world-class facilities but it also has a family swimming pool and an Ofsted registered crèche for kids aged 3 months to 5 years.

Find out more

N stars @ Nuffield Health

Taking babies as young as 6-weeks old. Most sites have swimming pools, saunas, and steam rooms, so you can head for a leisurely bit of exercise, a class or just to sit in the café and have a coffee. Clubs like Preston and Wolverhampton also have Physiotherapists and beauty suites offering treatments from Elemis and Jessica nails.

Find your nearest club

Virgin Active

Probably the most well known. There are Virgin Active clubs everywhere and lots have an on-site creche that is open to children from 6 weeks to 4 years. Plus unlike a lot of other clubs members can use it for a whopping 4 hours a day. Great if you work part time and need flexible childcare options as you can fit in a class, a coffee and maybe even do some work!

Find your nearest club

Tags spa

The Hotlist – Things to do in February

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 1 February 2023

The Hotlist – Things to do in February

The best places for a date night. A spa trip every mum needs to book. Ways to help your child’s mental health. A book that will empower you. And the best things to listen and watch this month.

The best places for a date night

We’re much more likely to do a dine-in for £10 on Valentine’s Day, but if you are feeling especially romantic and want to remember why you liked your partner in the first place. These are our favourite love-enhancing venues.

THE MAINE MAYFAIR

Looking for a night of decadence. Maine is a swanky blend of speakeasy tavern and brasserie. During your evening, you’ll be treated to a debauched cabaret and a seriously delicious menu.

Book now

CHOTTO MATTE

One of our favourite London restaurants has recently had a makeover to make it even cooler. With live DJ sets, neon street art and a vibe that reflects its trendy Soho location. Oh, and the food? Yeah, it’s unbelievable!!

Book now

LA POULE AU POT

No one does romance better than the French, and at La Poule Au Pot, you’re instantly wooed by the gorgeous farmhouse dimly lit interior. Located in Belgravia and a short walk from Victoria station, it’s kind of set out on its own but well worth booking into.

Book now

Get yourself some FREE Me Time

NEAL’S YARD ME TIME

A step up from an uninterrupted nap or shower. Neals Yard is offering customers 10 minutes free me time until the end of March. There will be in-store wellbeing experiences ranging from massage treatments and aromabalance sessions (a way to help you de-stress, calm or whatever you need) to herbal tea tasting and wellbeing consultations. Contact your local store to find out more.

Find your nearest store

Support your child’s mental health with these 6 things

YOTO + MOSHI MINDFUL STORIES

One of our favourite audio players has partnered with children’s mindfulness app Moshi to bring kids stories that support them, understand feelings and encourage kindness, sharing and compassion.

Find out more

MY EMOTIONS ACTIVITY BOOK

A free downloadable book is full of fun activities encouraging children to start gentle conversations about their thoughts and feelings.

Download here

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

KIND BY ALISON GREEN

An inspiring picture book about the many ways children can be kind, from sharing their toys and games to making those from other countries feel welcome

Buy now

CLUB PATCHES

The perfect reminder to give or sew into your kids clothes, that they have absolutely got this and you’re with them every step of the way. Empowering and brilliant.

Buy now

Book a date that’s all about you

THE MUM CLUB EVENTS

Mums nights outs, brunches and Galentines events. Our THE MUM CLUB hosts are providing something for everyone this month.

Find your nearest club

Book yourself a treat for Mother’s Day

SOPWELL HOUSE

“A fabulous treat for mums or mums to be, but just make sure you’re booked into The Club at Cottonmill, not just the Cottonmill, as it’s not the same. Confusing, I know, but that aside it’s a beautiful place to go. I’ve never been to a spa that’s so quiet. Maybe that’s why they charge so much! The facilities are beautiful inside and out and have some fantastic treatments you can try. Sadly, I was pregnant when I went, so I couldn’t utilise everything, but I still had a great time and spent hours there. Our hotel room was a bit disappointing for the cost, but the food and waiting staff were sublime, which made up for it. If I returned, I’d book a day spa package and maybe stay locally in an Airbnb.”

TMC Editor, Lydia House

Experience this

DOPAMINE LAND

Giving us all the Emily in Paris vibes, this new visual art experience is family-friendly, but we think it’s better to go with friends or a partner and then head for drinks or dinner afterwards. There are lots of tickets left for this month, but it’s on until April, so you have plenty of time to plan.

Book now

Read this

MOTHER POWER

Know and grow your power as a mother with this honest, guilt-free parenting guide that champions your own needs and wellbeing as well as those of your children

Buy now

Listen to

PERFECT DAY PLAYLIST

We’ve always liked this playlist, but the recent update on songs is giving us all the feels. Blast it out, and we guarantee your day will be much better.

Listen now

Watch this

CHIPPENDALES

This is a brilliant series; it almost feels like a movie. We watched all of them within 24 hours, and yes, hot men take their clothes off.

Watch now

GINNY & GEORGIA

We might be late to the game here, but we recently started watching season one, and we’re already racing through episodes. Binge-watching at its best.

Watch now

BREAK POINT

A new behind-the-scenes documentary about the 2022 tennis season. An inspiring watch that showcases the hard work players put into achieving their dreams.

Watch now

TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Fish Pie

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 30 January 2023

TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Fish Pie

Ingredients

1.5 kg floury potatoes
4 large free-range eggs , optional
50 g unsalted butter
50 g plain flour
2 fresh bay leaves
350 ml quality fish stock
350 ml semi-skimmed milk , plus an extra splash
50 g Cheddar cheese
½ a lemon
1 heaped teaspoon English mustard
a few sprigs of fresh flat-leaf parsley , optional
300 g skinless, boneless white fish , such as coley, whiting, haddock, cod
200 g skinless boneless salmon
200 g skinless, boneless undyed smoked haddock
200 g baby spinach
extra virgin olive oil
1 whole nutmeg , for grating

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC/400ºF/gas 6.

2. Peel the potatoes and cut into 2cm chunks, then boil for around 15 minutes, or until tender. Add the eggs for the last 8 minutes (if using).

3. Meanwhile, make the sauce. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed pan over a low heat and stir in the flour. Add the bay, then bit by bit, add the stock and the milk, stirring after every addition until you have a smooth, silky sauce. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until thickened.

4. Stir in the mustard, grate in half the cheese, then squeeze in the lemon juice. Pick, finely chop and stir in the parsley (if using), then keep stirring until the cheese is melted. Season with a little black pepper, then remove from the heat.

5. Get yourself a 25cm x 30cm baking dish. Check that there aren’t any stray bones lurking in the fish fillets, then slice into 2.5cm chunks and spread them evenly over the base of the dish.

6. Wilt and add the spinach, then peel, quarter and add the eggs (if using). Remove the bay leaves, then pour over the white sauce and allow to cool slightly.

7. Drain the potatoes well and mash with a little extra virgin olive oil, a splash of milk and a few scrapings of nutmeg. Spoon the potatoes over the pie and scuff up the surface with a fork.

8. Grate the remaining Cheddar over the top and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through, the sauce is bubbling up at the sides and the top is golden.

Delicious served with lots of green veg.

For another recipe head to https://realfood.tesco.com/recipes/healthy-fish-pie.html

Maternity Jeans to Buy Now

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 26 January 2023

Maternity Jeans to Buy Now

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

Jean shopping can be a headache at the best of times. Throw in an ever-expanding bump to the mix and you’d be forgiven for wearing leggings for the duration of your pregnancy.

Well, the good news is, we’ve done the legwork for you so that you can confidently shop maternity denim from the comfort of your own home.

Mom Over Bump Jeans

Topshop

£33.60 (Sale)

Mid Rise Mom Jeans

River Island

£42

Wide Leg Jeans

Long Tall Sally

£45

Ripped Over Bump Mom Jeans

New Look

£13 (Sale)

Slim Straight Low Jeans

H&M

£39.9

Ankle Jeans

H&M

£34.99

Black Denim Dungaree

Asos Design

£45

Super Skinny Jeans

H&M

£27.99

Wide Leg Fit Jeans

Mamalicious

£60

Cotton Jeans

H&M

£39.99

Mid Rise Mom Jeans

River island

£42

TMC Family Recipe Of The Week: Easy Peasy Chilli Con Carne

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 25 January 2023

TMC Family Recipe Of The Week: Easy Peasy Chilli Con Carne

IMAGE: BBC

Requires some prep, a little fry off and then your oven does all the work.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 large onions, halved and sliced
3 large garlic cloves, chopped or pressed
1-2 tbsp mild chilli powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp dried oregano
1kg pack lean minced beef
400g of chopped tomatoes (cans)
2 beef stock cubes
2 large red peppers, deseeded and cut into chunks
10 sundried tomatoes
3 x 400g cans red kidney beans, drained

Method:

STEP 1
Heat oven to 150C/fan 130C/gas 3.
Heat the oil, preferably in a large flameproof casserole dish, and fry the onions for 8 mins.
Add the garlic, spices and oregano and cook for 1 min, then gradually add the mince, stirring well until browned.
Stir in the tomatoes, add half a can of water, then crumble in the stock and season.

STEP 2
Cover and cook in the oven for 30 mins. Stir in the peppers and sundried tomatoes, then cook for 30 mins more until the peppers are tender and stir in the beans.

STEP 3
When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the hob until bubbling. Serve with guac, a big salad, some basmati rice or smother over tortilla chips and serve with all the sides. STEP 4 If you want to use a slow cooker, fry your onions in a pan for 8 mins, then add your garlic, spices and oregano and cook for a minute. Gradually add the mince until it’s brown. Tip into your slow cooker with the tomatoes, peppers, sundried tomatoes and beans, crumble in the stock cubes and season to taste. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours, then serve as above

Original recipe BBC Good Food

The Best Family Holidays to Book Now

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 23 January 2023

The Best Family Holidays to Book Now

Whether you’re trying to think of things to do in the next half-term or just dreaming your way out of this very cold January, we’ve partnered with TUI to bring you some of the best places to book right now.

The Best Place for a City Break

Copenhagen

Travelling to cities can sometimes feel far from relaxing, but not when you’re in Copenhagen. Not only is it one of the coolest places we’ve been to (pre-kids). But it’s also made for families. Whether you’re visiting the famous Tivoli theme park, tasting great food in the market or experiencing one of the 125 public playgrounds and activities, we’re more than sure you’lll have a great time.

Book Now

Our TUI pick: Tivoli Hotel

Bang smack in the centre. This hotel has everything you need for a successful family break. Not only does the hotel cater for kids with play areas, themed rooms and a playground. But it’s also right next to the Tivoli theme park, and one of its restaurants is Sticks’n’Sushi, so you don’t have to compromise on good food just because your kids are in tow.

What to Pack for Copenhagen

Butterfly Seat Stroller

Bugaboo

£95

Gren Check Faux Fur Coat

Warehouse

£55 (Sale)

Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken

£95

Fleece Jacket

Arket

£35

Forum Infant Trainers

Adidas

£38

Rib-Knit Hat

H&M

£4.99

The Best Place to Soak Up the Sun

The Moroccan Coast

Fed up of hearing that the Canary Islands are the only place to go for winter sun? Why not try Morocco? Not only is the flight about 2-3 hours, but it’s also very reasonable, and you get a lot for your buck. The coast is becoming hugely popular with families and many areas have surf and yoga chilled-out vibes. Areas like Tagazout (a small fishing village close to Agadir) not only have great hangouts, a beautiful coastline, and things to do. But they’re up and coming, so a lot of the resorts are new and have huge modern facilities created for kids.

Book Now

Our TUI Pick: Paradis Plage Resort

This hotel is constantly featured on lists of the best place to stay on the Moroccan coast. Not only is the setting stunning, but it also has a spa, a surf school, a beachfront yoga studio, an outdoor cinema and beautiful decor and rooms.

And if you’re taking the children, there are tons of activities for them too! Plus, there’s also a kids club and babysitting can be arranged.

What to Pack for Morocco

Silicone Multi-Purpose Kitchen Storage Bag

Stasher

£19.01

Square Neck Swimsuit

Hunza G

£155

Blackout Blind

Gro

£32 (Sale)

Blush Mix/Lion Mix Hat

Wynken

£22.50 (Sale)

Roll On Sun Cream

Nivea

£9.79

Boys Turtle Peach & Navy Swim Shorts

Galago Joe

£35

The Best Place to Ski with Kids

Crystal Ski Holidays

Part of TUI, Crystal Ski Holidays offers customers everything they need to ski in one convenient package, making skiing with children seem feasible, as they take care of everything. From lift passes and equipment hire, to ski schools and kids’ clubs. They even have a select number of resorts that offer Pepi Penguin nurseries that care for little ones as young as 6-months.
So what might seem like a logistical nightmare to do with young children, could actually be quite fun!
Apres ski and spa, here we come!

Find Out More

Our Crystal Pick: La Plagne Ski Holidays

Not only is the resort right next to the slopes, but it also has a spa and is continuously voted as one of the best places for families to ski.

Some activities nearby include bowling, a cinema, an ice cave, ice skating, skidoos and even bobsleighs. The resort also has the Beanie Bear club for children aged 3-8 and the Pepi Penguin nursery for 6 months – 4 years. Meaning you can enjoy some time on your own too!

What to Pack for a Family Ski Holiday

Detachable-Sleeve Down Ski Jacket

H&M

£149.99

Zeitgeist Baby Carrier Tweed

Artipoppe

£347

Fleece Hoodie

Arket

£69

Icon Snow Boots

Moon Moot Kids

£140

White Noise machine

Marpac

£34.95

Kids Reversable Ski Fleece Snood

Zara

£10.99

3 Reasons Why We Love TUI

Kids go free

TUI offer thousands of free kids places, even in the summer holidays! They have a handy free kids’ place finder, to help customers find hotels with free kids’ places available.

Find out more here

Single parents pay less

If you’re after a holiday deal for one, or you’re a single adult travelling with children, you can save £100 on holidays departing between now and October. £100 on holidays departing between 1st November 2022 and 30th April 2023 and £150 on holidays departing between 1st May – 31st October 2023.

Find out more here

They make finding a luxury family holiday easy

TUI’s Sensatori collection features hotels that cater for adults needs as much as kids. With luxury accommodation and dining, adult-only zones and indulgent experiences – you’ll come away feeling like you actually had a holiday.

Find out more here

CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TUI

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

What to Wear This Week

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 23 January 2023

What to Wear This Week

Comfort and warmth are key this season and here is how we do it in style. *Top tip: Cashmere accessories are a great way to add warmth to an outfit without breaking the bank.

Grey Jumper

American Vintage

£150

Mom Jeans

Zara

£29.99

Quilted Showerproof Duvet Coat

£98

Cashmere Ribbed Beanie

Hush

£49

Cashmere Ankle Socks

Hush

£45

Waffle Debut Trainers

Nike

£56.99 (Sale)

What to Wear This Week

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 16 January 2023

What to Wear This Week

We are keeping it comfy and casual this week, adding in some colour to brighten up these grey wintery days. Layer with a mac or warm coat depending on what the weather’s doing.

Sports Sweatshirt

H&M

£24.99

Regular Cropped Stretch Jeans

Arket

£69

550 Trainers

New Balance

£130

Double-Fold Alpaca Merino Beanie

Arket

£35

Mini Tidal Hoope Earrings

Missoma

£85

Small Puzzle Bag in Satin Calfskin

Loewe

£2450

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

The Brands That Look after Your Kids and the Planet

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 16 January 2023

The Brands That Look after Your Kids and the Planet

Wouldn’t it be great if all the things you bought for your baby did something to help the environment too?

Well, these brands are doing exactly that.

From carbon-neutral car seats to sustainably created carriers, these brands are helping to protect your kids and the planet!

Britax – Romer KIDFIX i-SIZE £295

Meet Britax’s first carbon neutral seat!
Not only will they look after your children, and keep them comfy, on every car journey. They are also looking out for Mother Earth, as this seat is also available in their Green Sense soft fabric covers that are made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles.
And if you buy one, the packaging your car seat comes in is also sustainable. With plant-based bags, recycled cartons and biodegradable tags. They’ve thought of everything!

Buy Now

Binibamba – Cloud Merino Snugglesuit £89

Did you know that sheepskin is one of the hardest wearing natural fibres on the planet? BINIBAMBA products are like modern, snugly heirlooms to be loved on loop. All natural, hypoallergenic, antibacterial and extremely stylish, we’re huge fans of this brand and particularly love their baby snugglers, which are 100% natural, biodegradable and sustainable.

Buy Now

Naturalmat Baby – The Coco Mat From £85

Naturalmat Baby have had a planet-friendly approach from day one. Their beds and mattresses are all made by them in the UK, in their solar-powered workshop and from materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. They are 100% natural, hypoallergenic and you’ll find no plastics, VOCs or any other chemicals in their products. A brand we wholeheartedly trust.

Buy Now

Bambo Nature – Premium Eco Nappies £6.67

Want an eco nappy you can rely on? Bambo Nature are as strong and effective as they are safe and sustainable.
Designed specifically for children’s delicate skin. They only use carefully selected and approved ingredients and materials to minimize the risk of skin irritation and to keep your child’s skin soft, dry, and healthy.

Buy Now

Organic – Zoo Basil Apple Orchard Suit £39

Organic Zoo create timeless 100% organic clothing that’s better for our little ones and better for the planet. They are committed to running a business that cares. And are always looking for ways to improve what they do and to ensure their business is as sustainable as possible.

Buy Now

Childs Farm – Organic Shampoo Bar £8

Childs Farm and Farmologie’s ethics and values permeate everything that they produce; from ethically sourced suppliers and sustainably sourced naturally derived ingredients, to their 100% recycled ocean prevented plastic bottles and more.

Buy Now

Bugaboo – Butterfly Seat Pushchair £395

By 2023, Bugaboo pushchairs will be produced with bio-based material instead of fossil-based plastic. This game-changing innovation upcycles plant-based waste to give it a new life.

Buy Now

BabyBjorn – Baby Carrier One £175

BabyBjorn aim to make only long-lasting products that can be handed down to be worn by child after child. Just as they have done since the very beginning in 1961. They are constantly working to minimise their carbon footprint on the planet – from how their products are designed to how they’re manufactured and shipped.

Buy Now

Kit & Kin – Baby Oil £9.99

Who doesn’t love Kit & Kin? Not only are their products beautiful to look at but the ethos behind the brand is all about protecting the planet. There’s no green washing here. They use gentle and natural ingredients that are better for your baby, they give back with initiatives that help the rainforest and fund educational and healthcare clinics. And, they are cruelty free and use sustainable sourced and ethical materials.

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Ergo Pouch – Jersey Sleeping Bag £44.95

Looking for a new sleep bag? ErgoPouch sleepwear is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and bamboo, are non-toxic certified and friendly on skin. The natural fibres used are safer for your child and better for their skin because they allow it to breathe, regulate body temperature, and reduce the risk of overheating.

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Weleda – Calendula Nappy Cream £13.73

Not only has each product from Weleda’s 100% certified natural baby range been researched by a team of midwives and pharmacists to care and support healthy baby skin. The ingredients used are organically grown and the brand has a b corporation certification (which basically means they’re a total do-gooder when it comes to all things green).

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The Cheeky Panda – Bamboo Biodegradable Baby Wipes £2.84

You’ll find no chemical nasties in these wipes, just pure, plant based natural ingredients. Made with bamboo, 99% purified water and 1% aloe vera. They’re also biodegradable. And they’re made from naturally hypoallergenic material and their supply chain is also Carbon Balanced and protects the rainforest and its inhabitants from deforestation.

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Five of Us – Grey Gingham Check Margarita Cotton Blanket £69

Sustainability doesn’t stop with the materials this brand uses. It is engrained in the entire set up of their company. With each piece being handmade, sourcing materials carefully and working with small , family run manufacturers who create pieces of the highest quality, that will last for many generations to come.

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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: Winter Minestrone One Pot

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 2 January 2023

TMC Family Recipe of The Week: Winter Minestrone One Pot

Ingredients

1 Large Onion
½ Butternut Squash
2 Large Carrots
½ Savoy Cabbage
2 Celery Sticks
1 Large Courgette
2 Garlic Cloves
80g Spinach Leaves
400g tin Chopped Tomatoes
400g tin Mixed Beans, drained
2 Vegetable Stock Cubes
50g Tomato Purée
2 tsp Dried Oregano
2 tsp Paprika
½ tsp Ground Black Pepper
Sea Salt
1 litre Boiling Water
50ml Olive Oil

Method

1. Peel and finely chop the onion, squash and carrots.

2. Wipe and then chop the celery finely.

3. Peel and mince the garlic.

4. In a large pan, sauté the onion, garlic and celery in the olive oil for a few minutes, then add the chopped carrots and squash.

5. Add the water and tomatoes, then crumble over the stock cubes.

6. Bring to the boil, stirring as you cook.

7. Add the tomato purée, paprika, oregano and pepper, then season with some salt and cook for 15 minutes.

8. Shred the cabbage and chop the courgette finely, then add to the pan and cook for a further 8 minutes.

9. Add the beans to the pan.

10. Slice the spinach leaves roughly and add to the pan.

11. Cook for another 5 minutes, then serve.

Recipe and image from https://www.aldi.co.uk/c/recipes

More recipes: https://themumclub.com/category/life/food/

TMC Hot List January 2023

Post author By The Mum Club
Post date 31 December 2022

TMC Hot List January 2023

Prioritise yourself, get your sex life back, and learn a new skill. Or, just stay in and watch some excellent TV.

Treat Your Face

Celestial Black Diamond Non-Surgical Face Lift – 90 minutes, £240

“Make self-care a priority and book yourself in for a treatment. Get someone else to look after the kids and go! You don’t have to say it’s physio, a doctors apt or the dentist, self-care is a key factor to supporting your mental health and you should never feel guilty about it. I went to this one a few months after having my son, and it was absolute heaven. Whether you want to refresh your post-Christmas boozy face or you’re just f*cking tired, it made my skin look so much better. I looked fresher, and it was lovely to take a moment for myself.”

TMC Co-Founder Lauren Webber

Find Out More.

Book a Couples Trip

The Retreat Elcot Park

It’s bloody hard looking after tiny humans and maintaining a relationship with the person you started this mad crazy journey with. It’s easy to start feeling very disconnected from each other, and sometimes a trip away or a date night is all you need. The kids will be OK, and you’ll be so happy you took out some time for each other. Want some inspiration on where to go? We’ve got our eyes on The Retreat, Elcot Park. It was voted Britain’s best hotel by The Times and looks like the perfect place to relax and unwind. See you there!

Book Now

Take the Kids to London

Tiny Hox @ the Hoxton Hotel

The Hoxton is fast becoming our favourite place to stay when we visit London.
We love it so much that we had our TMC Xmas party there! And on our last stay, we found out they also offer tons of things for kids (if you decide to bring them). They have cribs, bottle warmers, and natural organic mattresses from naturalmat Baby – who we love. And they give you a tiny tote with a colouring book and Little’uns breakfast bag. Just tell them you need a Tiny Hox when booking, and they’ll take care of the rest.

Book now

Shop in Peace

Ikea Creche Reopens

Need to do an IKEA haul or look at some kitchen specs in peace? Well, their creches have returned (they shut during COVID). And Reading, Exeter, Warrington, Milton Keynes, Newcastle Gateshead, Southampton, Greenwich, Leeds, Sheffield, Nottingham and Warrington are all now open. The supervised non-bookable play area for children aged 3-10 is completely free of charge for 45 minutes. So, you can head into a store and enjoy some shopping while the kids do their thing.

Find Out More

Learn a New Skill

Marcus Bean Cookery

Want to learn a new skill? Or improve on your already pretty decent cookery skills? Then check out the Brompton Cookery School.
Professional chef Marcus Bean runs it and teaches some of the classes himself. They have tons of classes to choose from, from making stylish vegetarian food (that even meat eaters will love) to pastry masterclasses, bread courses, and more.

Find out more

Get Your Sex Life Back

Get Your Mojo Back

If your sex life is non-existent, then please don’t think you’re on your own.
We all struggle with our mojo (the word even makes us feel a bit awkward!).
Thankfully this brilliant, insightful, and funny book is coming out this month and is here to save the day.

Read Now

Be Inspired and Listen to This

The High Performance Podcast

If your brain is feeling a little fuzzy and filled with baby-related Qs and issues, then you might like a grown-up chat to tune into that doesn’t involve kids.
We love this podcast and granted we need to be in the right mindset to listen (and have had enough sleep – there’s one on that), but when we’re geared up, it’s a great one to get stuck into.
Power thoughts on those walks in the park, coming home ready to take on the world / make a cup of tea.

Listen now

Blow Dry Your Hair Like a Pro

Duck & Dry Blow-Dry Course

Ever wonder how hairdressers manage to blow-dry your hair to perfection?
Now you can now learn how to do it yourself. As London hair salon, Duck and Dry offer a very cool blow-dry class.
So, when you get the time, you can recreate that just-out-of-the-salon look.

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Watch These

His Dark Materials Season 3

If you haven’t already watched this, then we recommend catching up as it’s so blimmin brilliant, and we’re so excited for season 3.

Watch Now

Firefly Lane

Best friends Tully and Kate support each other through good times and bad with an unbreakable bond that carries them from their teens to their 40s.

Watch Now

Harry & Meghan

It’s one of the most talked about shows atm, and whether you’re for or against them, it’s worth tuning into it, even if it’s just to join in on the What’s App convo.

Watch Now

Happy Valley Season 3

We loved the last two seasons and this one is set to be just as good. If you haven’t seen it, it’s well worth a watch.

Watch Now

Arrange a Girls Night Out

Lucky Voice’s Hottest New Spot

Because it takes about three million years to get your friends in order, we suggest getting a date in the diary now. And the perfect destination is opening this month. Lucky Voice Karaoke bar opens its newest site in Devonshire Square, London, and it’s going to have the most impressive booths for you to let loose in and a large disco wrecking ball that you can sit on and unleash your inner Miley Cyrus. Things are gonna get wild people!

Book Here