Merry Xmas and A Happy New Year 2010!

I am getting sooo excited about Xmas this year as we are leaving London tomorrow, flying to the Czech Republic, to see all my family and friends. Isabelle will be delighted to see all her cousins, family and friends, and will be practising her Czech language all the time. As some of you might know, we get presents on Christmas Eve, not in the morning like in England. I have to say that the evening atmosphere is just magical, the lit up Xmas tree, snow outside and traditional Czech Xmas carols in the background. Our traditional dinner would be fish soup, fried carp with potato salad, Xmas Czech cookies and open sandwiches. And how do you usually spend your Xmas?

I would like to wish you all a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year 2010!

GOSH Children's Charity Xmas Shop!

At Christmas time more than ever people think about donating or somehow contributing to charities. Why don't you buy your presents from GOSH Xmas shop and that way contribute to the famous children's hospital? There are loads of lovely things there, gifts for children or adults and all profits go to the charity. Just have a look at the cute ladybird collection!

Would you like to be kinder to nature?

Most parents use wet wipes to clean their babies' delicate skin. Jackson Reece biodegradable wipes and natural flushable wipes use only natural ingredients- organic Aloe Vera, organic tea tree oil, organic lavender aromatherapy oil, and high purity water. What I like the best is that the wipes are bio-degradable and the packs are degradable (specially designed to keep the wipes moist and fresh). Also the flushable wipes degrade in water within 8 days.

Congratulations to the lucky 5 winners of All Baby Advice Xmas Organix Competition:

1. Cornelia van den Bremer
2. Sandy Calico
3. Natalie Cooper
4. Dean Reynolds
5. Amanda Morison
   

Traditional Czech Xmas Cookies!

When it comes to Xmas, there is one tradition I cannot imagine Xmas without. Baking Xmas cookies. Even when I used to live in Sydney, and it was summer and very hot, I used to bake my favourite Xmas cookies called "vanilla crescents". They are quite easy to make and people just love eating them! Why don't you try my recipe and let me know what you think?

You will need:
240g plain flour
200g unsalted butter
120g icing sugar
110g ground almonds
1 vanilla sugar sachet

Mix all the flour, butter (cut into small pieces for easier mixing), 70g of icing sugar (only!) and ground almonds, and leave the dough in the fridge for 1.5hours. Preheat the oven ( 150 Degrees Celsius) and use your hands to make crescent shapes out of the dough. Bake them slowly for about 10- 15 minutes and then put the hot crescents into a mixture of the rest of the icing sugar & vanilla sugar and leave them to cool down on a separate plate or tray.

My special tip!
They should be stored in a box in a cool place for about a week and then they are even tastier!

Xmas with new Trunki

Have you seen the latest two designs of Trunki? Gruffalo would be probably more appreciated by boys, but there is also Harley, the ladybird design, that could be a perfect gift for your little princess.

Best deals on Stokke® Sleepi™ Packages!

Another award winning Stokke product. There are many great features, functions and benefits that put this product among one of the best nursery products. Available in five colours, this beautiful and stylish crib can be later expanded into a small and full- sized children's bed. What a great idea, which can save you a lot of money and time when looking for the right sleeping solution for your little one!

Features:

• Oval in design- prevents getting “stuck in a corner”
• Mini bassinet- a comforting, round and more compact crib for your infant baby
• Full sized crib and toddler bed
• Full sized children’s bed and sofa
• Easy to adjust- requires an umbraco key and standard screwdriver to assemble and adjust
• Adjustable bed base- can adjust to four different heights
• Strength and stability- made from strong and resilient beech wood
• High quality foam mattress
• Protective coating- easier to maintain and clean
• Wide range of accessories
• Bedroom chairs- can be transformed into two stylish bedroom chairs
  

Lazzari Tidy Tubs

When it comes to the "tidy up" time, it is always good your little one helps as much as possible. In order to do that, the storage system you choose should be child friendly and easy to use by your child. My Isabelle has started enjoying it as we went for these coloured tubs, that come in beautiful designs and are very easy for her to use. She also loves emptying them...but knows if she tips the tub over she will be the one to put all her toys back in again! Why don't you check them out at www.gltc.co.uk

• nylon storage tubs
• sturdy leather handles
• wipe clean
• measures 44cmH x 48cmDia
• featured in Living, Pregnancy & Birth and Junior Magazines
  

ORGANIX - No Junk Promise!

When you start weaning your little baby, you want to give them the best start in their life, foods that are always safe, nutritious and free from unnecessary artificial ingredients. That is exactly what all ORGANIX products provide. There are products suitable for different age groups ( from 4-6 months, from 7 months, from 12 months, from 3 years), which makes it very easy for parents to choose from. You can choose from organic cereals, organic fruit purees, organic savoury meals, organic finger foods, organic biscuits, organic savoury biscuits, organic cereal bars, organic dried fruit, organic maize snacks, and others. My daughter's favourites are organic sweetcorn rings, raspberry & apple cereal bars, organic spicy tomato stars, and cheese & onion number bites.

You can also find a lot of useful information on Organix website ( feeding advice, meal planner, cook book) or why don't you join the new ORGANIX Natter- their online community where you can get even more advice or talk to other parents and collect rewards? Organix have provided an exclusive code for All Baby Advice readers. Just enter AB579 when you sign up for the Organix Natter and you will get 10 free points. One of the rewards you can claim is a Cuddledry Cuddlebug Towel pictured below.

Indoor Activites for Toddlers!

With the colder and rainy months approaching, I have been thinking a lot about some indoor activities for my 2.5 year old Isabelle. She is very energetic and loves going outside, but it is not always possible. One of my friends told me about a ballet class for her age group, and she absolutely loves it. It lasts only for 30 minutes, but she is always so excited about going and afterwards she shows me all the movements she has learnt. I have also checked the Tumble Tots classes, and even though you have to pay some membership fees, it is definitely worth the money. Isabelle seemed quite shy at first, but soon was climbing up the ladders, walking across bridges and participating in other activities with great enthusiasm. Children love different things, but it is always important to try a few and find the best one for your child. Why don't you share some tips and help other mums?


My tip: London Aquarium
Last weekend we decided to go to the famous London Aquarium. It was pouring down with rain, very windy, a perfect day to stay inside and enjoy exploring the sea world. Isabelle was so excited and absolutely loved it. She could not wait to see the sharks, turtles and octopuses. Her favourite were jellyfish and seahorses. Just make sure you plan it ahead and have plenty of time for exploring!

Win! Win! Win!

Christmas Competition

Your chance to WIN one of 5 boxes of a selection of all ORGANIX foods generously donated by ORGANIX! To enter the free prize draw simply answer the question on All Baby Advice competitions page

Rockabye Baby- Lullabies for Babies!

Children love music and are very often influenced by music their parents listen to. I have come across a very interesting website, focusing on transforming timeless rock songs into beautiful instrumental lullabies. Guitars and drums are traded for soothing mellotrons, vibraphones and bells, and the volume is turned down from an eleven to a two. I have always loved U2, so I went for this Irish group, and have to say I loved it from the very beginning. When my daughter listened to the lullabies for the first time, she seemed very relaxed and fell asleep with a smile on her face. Since then she always asks for it before going to bed. Why don't you check all the available lullaby renditions at ROCKABYE BABY! ?

Something Special for Your Little Princess!

With Christmas slowly approaching, we all are looking for some special presents for our loved ones. I am sure that a jewellery box is one of the things all little princesses would love. I have had a chance to review an absolutely beautiful wooden jewellery box designed by a Swedish designer Marie Ekerholm, the founder of Freya Design and have to say, that I was very impressed not only by the design, but also by the very high quality of the product and all the other features it has. It comes with a heart shaped mirror, latch and key, and four compartments. If you wish you can also get your box personalised! What else could a little princess wish for? Freya Design also makes beautiful keepsake boxes for boys and girls, trinket boxes, money boxes or storage boxes as well as just plain boxes. Check out all the attractive designs at www.freyadesign.co.uk

For the latest baby & todder information, competitions and new voucher codes, please, join our free All Baby Advice Newsletter

A Wetsuit for Your Bathtoys!

All parents know how children love their bath time. Whether they are just a few weeks old or much older, they just love it, and could spend a long time playing with their bath toys. Our Isabelle is 2.5 years old now, which means she has collected quite a few bath toys, and have to admit, that they used to be just everywhere. Not any more! In the past, I bought some bath organiser, but all the toys would not fit in it and soon we had to get rid of it as it became mouldy! I have been searching for a solution for a long time and have found it! Skip Hop Tubby Bath Toy Organiser. It is just perfect, it comes in orange and blue, the soft wetsuit material dries very quickly and is machine- washable!
You can buy it at www.nubie.co.uk, a modern kids boutique.

• The dimensions (inches): 12 wide x 15 high x 4 deep
• BPA Free, Phthalate- Free
• Dries quickly
• Stretch mesh panels keep toys dry
• Stay- put mounting plate secures the bag on tile or glass
• Machine- washable
  

For the latest baby & todder information, competitions and new voucher codes, please, join our free All Baby Advice Newsletter

Bambino Merino - Perfect for All Seasons!

If you are looking for a great toddler sleeping bag, you should check the one from Bambino Merino. Our Isabelle has been sleeping in sleeping bags since she was tiny and we have tried a few different makes ( Mamas & Papas, Snoozie, Grobag). My daughter loves her Grobag sleeping bags, and would not sleep without one. As we were recently looking for a larger sleeping bag, she has tried sleeping in her new Bambino Merino Sleeping Toddler Bag and absolutely loved the softness and lightness of it. It is made from all natural fibres featuring a soft 100% merino lining and a striped cotton outer. It is a perfect size for 2 - 4 year old toddlers and I really like the idea that it is designed to be worn in all seasons, which means, you do not need to buy different sleeping bags for summer and winter. Some parents could be discouraged because it is more difficult to care for products made of wool, but it can be machine washed using a mild wool detergent and following the instructions mentioned on Bambino Merino website.

What I like about Merino?

• It is a breathable natural fibre
• It helps regulate baby’s body temperature
• It can be worn all year round
• It won’t scratch, itch or irritate delicate skin
• It is fire resistant
• It is odour resistant so needs less washing
• It is machine washable

For the latest information on baby & todder and new voucher codes, please, join our free
All Baby Advice Newsletter

Dry Night, Sleep Tight!

Our Isabelle has been without nappies for many months now, but occasionally she has accidents, especially during hot summer time, when she was drinking a lot before going to bed. But can you not give your child a drink when they ask for it? I have decided to wake her just before I go to bed, and that seemed to help. Then I started to put a plastic sheet under her fitted sheet, just in case. She did not like it, as every time she moved, the plastic sheet was making noise. Not long ago I came across Aquasolari Bed Pad, and the problem was solved! It is so soft and easy to fit. I really appreciate the size of it (99cm x 86cm) and the wings which wrap around the side of the bed and tuck in under the mattress to stop it from moving. What a great idea!

• machine washable at any temperature
  
• absorbs up to 2 litres of liquid ( it really does, I tested it!)
  
• can be tumble dried
• tested to 200 washes at 92°C
• tuck-in wings keep bed pads in place
• can be fitted above or below the sheet

For more info on sleeping or potty training go to All Baby Advice Sleeping or Feeding Section.

BabyAid- Your First Aid Kit On The Go!

We all know how many things we need when going on holiday. One of the things that is on every mum's mind is to have a first aid kit. "BabyAid" is a perfect size baby first aid kit on the go which includes everything you need as well as very useful instructions and British Red Cross First Aid guide. I also liked the bravery award stickers, which were highly appreciated by Isabelle, as she absolutely loves stickers!

This kit contains :
3 x Burnshield Burnblott Sachets
1 x Non adherent absorbent dressing 10cm x 10cm
1 x Conforming bandage 5cm x 4m
1 x Blunt first aid scissors
1 x Adhesive tape 1,25cm x 5m
1 x Sterile Eyewash/Woundwash pod 20ml
3 x Disposable Traxit childrens thermometers
4 x Alcohol free cleansing wipes
2 x 4cm x 4cm hypoallergenic plasters
1 x 6cm x 7cm hypoallergenic plasters
8 x Childrens fun hypoallergenic plasters
6 x Brave Little Star Stickers
1 x How to make it better-Guidance leaflet
1 x What is it all for-Directions for use leaflet

For more info on baby safety and health go to our All Baby Advice Baby Safety & Health Section

Folic Acid & Healthy Pregnancy

Before having Isabelle, I did a lot of research on healthy pregnancy diet and thanks to that I knew how important it is to take folic acid before getting pregnant as well as when being pregnant. According to a BBC News article, women often do not begin taking folic acid until they are already pregnant, which can be sometimes too late to prevent spina bifida. Recently I came across a product called Femibion, a supplement created to provide you with all the nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy, contains Metafolin® , which women can absorb much more easily. Iodine, key B vitamins and vitamin C and E are all included in a daily capsule which is small and easy to swallow (ideal if you have been suffering from morning sickness).

To find out more go to our All Baby Advice Pregnancy & Maternity Section

The Wean Machine

Have you seen the new wean machine? What a brilliant product! I have had a chance to test it for a review and have to say, that it is a must have when you start weaning your little one. It is very easy to use, just fill it with some soft or well cooked food, squeeze and feed your baby. What I like about it most, is how compact and portable it is. You have all you need for feeding your baby, including a bowl, a spoon, a splash-guard and easy squeezy system! It is dishwasher safe and very easy to clean.

For more information on weaning go to our Feeding Section

Mama Mio Boob Tube

All women know that their breasts change with the age, also after being pregnant and breastfeeding. As I have always had large breasts, I was worried that they would become very saggy and have always been doing some exercises to prevent that. Then I came across Mama Mio Boob Tube, rich in CoQ10 (to maintain strength and structure of collagen fibres), super nourishing, and so packed full of fantastic natural actives that your skin just responds beautifully to the attention, and have to say, what a brilliant product! I could tell the difference only after a week. My breasts felt much perkier and the skin firmer. I think it is very important not only to use good products, but also to do some exercise.

To hear about my newest product reviews and advice, new voucher codes, subscribe to free All Baby Advice Newsletter.

Travelling to Barcelona?

Barcelona is one of the most popular and most beautiful destinations when travelling in Europe. I have been there a number of times, but never after having our Isabelle. We all know how many things we need to pack when travelling with a baby or a toddler. Why do not you try out Buggying bcn, the new buggy rental service in Barcelona - SPAIN? Buggying is aimed at families coming to Barcelona for holidays with children from 18months up to 4 years. Would you consider using this service? We would love to hear your say!

For more information and new voucher codes, please, join our free
All Baby Advice Newsletter

Maternity Fashion!

With the summer slowly approaching, I have been looking for trendy swimwear for future mums. I have discovered this Melissa Odabash's set which features 3 pieces; a tankini top, a bikini top and bottoms to allow you to mix and match as you like. The bust on both the tankini and bikini is generous, and the bottoms are not too skimpy, with a lot of stretch so as not to dig in at the hip. The tops have a chic silver or gold ring detailing at the bust, and are available in either sunshine coral or a circle print aqua print.

To find out more go to our Maternity & Mum Fashion Section.

For more information and new voucher codes, please, join All Baby Advice Newsletter

Child locator

What do you think about this product? Would you or have you tried it? I have not used it, but I think it is a very interesting idea. I have experienced looking for children ( luckily not my own) and getting really frustrated and scared. Would this really work? I do not know. The manufacturer claims The Teddy Bear Receiver delivers a loud 56 Db intermittent chirp/beeping sound that functions up to 150 feet away from the Keychain Transmitter and could be used while shopping, during playing games or at the park. Tell us what you think and help other parents by sharing your experience with us.

For more information and new voucher codes, please, join All Baby Advice Newsletter

Christenings, naming days and birthdays!

All parents want the best for their children and when it comes to celebrating Christenings, naming days and birthdays, we all want our children to enjoy their parties, but very often it means a lot of stress with the preparations. Lila’s party offer exclusive christening and naming day party packs, with new birthday party ranges due to launch in August 2009. Everything you need for your child’s special day can be found in one place (party boxes filled with balloons, bunting and napkins, stationery such as invitations, RSVP and thank you cards)

Lila's Party offer exclusive voucher code for our newsletter subscribers. Subscribe to All Baby Advice Newsletter.

Star Baby Products

Mother & Baby magazine was and still is one of the best magazines for pregnant women. I used to love reading it when pregnant with Isabelle. I am sure that many new mums and dads also know about their product awards. I have finally updated All Baby Advice with the latest results. You can find the winners of these categories:

• Best Pushchair


• Best Nursery Product


• Best Newborn Toy (0-6 months)


• Best Monitor


• Best Lightweight Buggy/ Stroller


• Best Learning Toy


• Best Junior Car Seat


• Best Infant Carrier



• Best Highchair


• Most Innovative Product


• Best Twin/Tandem Pushchair


• Best Travel System


• Best Travel Product


• Best Toddler Toy (18-36 months)


• Best Skincare Product


• Best Reusable Nappy


• Best Feeding Product From Weaning


• Best Breastfeeding Product


• Best Baby/ Toddler Car Seat


• Best Baby Toy (6-18 months)


• Best Baby Sling/ Carrier


• Best Baby Bottle


• Best Baby Catalogue/ Shopping Website


• Retailer of the Year


• Health Product of the Year

For more information and new voucher codes, please, join All Baby Advice Newsletter

My First Ready Bed

With summer holiday approaching, I have been been looking for products, that would make my life a bit easier when packing and travelling with our toddler. One of my friends has mentioned going camping, and that they have bought this ready bed for their son. When I checked it online I loved the idea and bought one for my daughter straight away. It has many great features and she loves it so much that she sleeps in it after lunch.

To find out more go to our Baby Travel Section

Yummy mummy!

Many pregnant women are looking for maternity clothes that are not only cool, stylish and fashionable, but also comfortable.
When I was researching maternity wear, I came across Wondermummy.com and absolutely loved their summer collection (cool summer dresses for day & night, smart suits for work, chic & comfortable wide-legged pants, linen trousers, flattering tops & tunics). Why don't you check them out and tell me what you think?

For more information on pregnancy go to our Pregnancy & Labour Section.

The nursing collection offers great value for money as it is designed to work from your transition to maternity clothes until you are breastfeeding and beyond. You will find tops, dresses and pyjamas that are just what you need for discreet breastfeeding without compromising on style.

Mealtime can be fun

My 2 year-old daughter is currently going through a "fussy eater" stage, as many children at this age do. Sometimes little things like new cutlery can help her eat her dinner. When I saw this OLIVER BONAS Childrens Cutlery Set, I felt in love with it straight away and got it for her. She loves using it and also likes showing it to her friends. And what are your tips for mums with fussy eaters?

For more info go to our Feeding Section

Breastfeeding Reminder Bracelet

What a great invention! This milkband not only tracks which breast you need to nurse from, but has many other great features. You can record how long and how often your baby feeds, it is easy to read at night, comes in many beautiful colours and fits most. For more info go to http://www.bebecannelle.com/collections/milkbands

For more info on breastfeeding go to our Feeding Section

Isabella Oliver Maternity Mid- Season Sale

If you are after something chic and stylish when pregnant, you must see the new Isabella Oliver Spring Summer 2009 collection. It is true, they are not cheap, but I think it is very important for you to feel good when pregnant and "a piece of art" can only put a smile on your face. Make the most of the mid- season sale, which will be taking place as of the 30th April until the 10th May 2009.

For more information go to our Shop With Us Section (Maternity and Baby Fashion)

Antenatal classes

Originally, I did not want to attend antenatal classes. But then my husband agreed to come with me and now I am very happy for that decision. Not only we learnt some information about pregnancy, but most importantly, we made very good friends with other pregnant mums and dads who we still see on a regular basis. Our babies were born in the same month, so we all went through similar things together. It is definitely worth attending these. And what is your experience?