Bumpy beginnings Special Delivery Autumn 2012 The National Childbirth Trust: Registered CharityNo. 801395 to pottytrain yourtoddleraswell NCTevents,supportand services Plus –managinggestational diabetes,getting overatraumaticbirth andchoosingtheright time Keeping yourrelationship alive An earlyarrival Clapham &DistrictBranch Common breastfeeding problems Coping withreflux fybrefitnesshub wellness on your doorstep Hi ...If you have not already heard about us.. we have arrived...and we have lotʼ’s happening in our beautiful new boutique hub... and...we are on your doorstep!! CLASSES IN pregnancy yoga, mum and baby yoga kids yoga, streetdance for kids, vinyasa flow and hatha yoga, pilates, zumba and lots more!

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Your Local Area & NCT 5 What’s On and what’s new 6 Playgroups and parenting workshops 7 Postnatal tea groups 8 Supporting the NCT 9 NCT events 10 Meet the volunteer Al Walmsley 11 Ask the experts your questions answered Breastfeeding Pregnancy & Birth 18 Overcoming the early hurdles Julie Morris on 12 The lowdown on gestational diabetes some common breastfeeding problems and how to Anna Waldron gives an overview of gestational deal with them diabetes 20 Coping with reflux Amy Tarr shares her 13 An early arrival Victoria Howes on her experience of managing her daughter’s reflux experience of giving birth five weeks early 22 Breastfeeding support

14 Not the start I expected Janet Lindsey shares her & Contents Credits experience of recovering from a fourth degree tear Early Days 15 Birth story Karen Beasley tells the story of her 23 Vox pops Nobody said it was going to be easy son’s birth 24 Dealing with depression Alex Bollen looks at 16 Birth announcements postnatal depression 26 When a child is born Alessandra Foderero explores at some of the many ways to commemorate the arrival of a new baby

Parenthood 28 Keeping the spark alive Jo Jones on overcoming the challenges her beloved children pose to her relationship with her husband 30 Wave goodbye to those nappies Kathryn Mewes shares her tips for successful potty training

Regulars 4 Chair’s welcome and editor’s letter 32 Advertising rates 33-57 Classified advertising 60 Branch information 61 Useful organisations 62 Bookworm Al Walmsley reviews recent releases

NCT enquiries: 0300 33 00 770 Breastfeeding line: 0300 330 0771 The Team Pregnancy & birth line: 0300 330 0772 Editor Jen Walmsley Membership hotline: 0844 243 7000 [email protected] Postnatal line: 0300 330 0773 Listings editor The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) was founded in 1956 to improve women’s knowledge about childbirth. Now an internationally recognised Natalie Thomas organisation, it is a registered charity with branches throughout the Photo editor UK. It provides up-to-date information, support and advice through its Caroline Kyriazis network of trained antenatal teachers and breastfeeding counsellors, local activities and regular branch newsletters. Feature writers Anna Baynham-Knight Janet Lindsey Please note that the views in this magazine are those of the contributors Karen Beasley Kathryn Mewes and not necessarily of the NCT. The inclusion of any advertisement in this magazine does not constitute endorsement by the NCT. Alex Bollen Julie Morris Alessandra Foderaro Amy Tarr This magazine is published by Clapham & District Branch and printed Rosalind Taylor-Hook Anna Waldron by Pop-i Studio, Unit 11, West Point Business Park, Westmead, Victoria Howes Al Walmsley New Hythe Lane, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6XJ Jo Jones Discounts from third parties contained within this newsletter are offered entirely at the discretion of the third party and the NCT will not compen- Design & production sate any member who is refused a discount from a third party. Claire Speight [email protected] Advertising manager Cover photo: D2 Portraits Photography Karen Beasley [email protected] www.d2portraits.co.uk www.nct.org.uk/clapham Autumn September 12 3 Letter from Jenny, co-chair Clapham NCT As the Olympics and Paralympics draw to a Your magazine close, I have been thinking about the legacy

Welcome of NCT. At a national level, NCT campaigns needs you! will continue to change and improve the Your feedback... experience of pregnancy, birth and early This is your magazine and we parenthood for all. At a local level, our work want to know what you think continues to be about providing support and – what could be better, what’s friendship to expectant and new parents. missing and any other com- I know the people I’ve met through NCT have been invaluable support ments you may have! [email protected] over the last five years, but this is nothing compared to the new grand- mother who recently contacted me to say she was still in regular contact Your pictures... with her Clapham NCT group from nearly 30 years ago! We love using pictures of local The branch is run entirely by volunteers, all of us parents like you and many mums-to-be, babies, toddlers have jobs and other commitments too, but we all share a common goal of and parents. Please send yours to [email protected] being here to make the transition to parenthood as easy and enjoyable as possible. If you would like to find out more about volunteering opportunities Your articles... please get in touch. Got something you want to get Another way to support the legacy of NCT is to renew your membership off your chest? An experience (£40 annually or £100 for four years) to continue benefitting from national you’d like to share? An idea for an article you think other par- and branch communications, early entry to nearly new sales and exclusive ents would like to read? Then member discounts. If you no longer need the benefits of membership but please get in touch – we’re would like to continue supporting the charity, then become a friend of NCT always looking for new writers by making a regular donation. Or perhaps you would like to make a one- [email protected] off donation to the branch or do some individual fundraising for NCT; we always have charity places in the London marathon and Great North and South Runs. Another legacy... this is the last magazine edited by Jen Walmsley, who has had the helm for the last two years, ably assisted in the background by her husband Al. Jen has produced eight wonderful editions, which have included many inspirational, touching, funny and informative articles. Thank you! [email protected] Jenny x Ed’s letter Coming up in the There’s no doubt about it, next issue... becoming a parent is one of the greatest challenges many of us A focus on working parents. Your rights will ever face. However, some beginnings are trickier than others. In this when you’re pregnant, expressing breast- issue we look at overcoming a variety of hurdles from coping with milk in the office, parental leave, starting diabetes in pregnancy or a traumatic birth experience right through your own business to fit around the school to potty training your toddler and baby-proofing your relationship. run and your guide to going back to work We also look at the frighteningly common phenomena of postnatal after a baby. depression and how to recognise it. But, despite the variety of subjects we cover this quarter, there’s a common theme. However Plus the latest news, details of NCT challenging parenting may be, however difficult the situation in which events, support and services, your ques- we might find ourselves, one look at our children and it is impossible tions answered and lots more..... to believe anything other than that that they make it all worthwhile. The latest challenge in my own life is returning to work after my third Make sure your NCT membership is maternity leave. I have no idea how I’m going to juggle work and an up-to-date so you don’t miss out! increasingly demanding home life but I love my job and so I’m going to at least give it a go. As a result, this is my final issue as editor after two hugely enjoyable and rewarding years. To renew your membership, simply visit www.nct.org.uk/join or phone Special Delivery is always keen to recruit new contributors and no experience is necessary. So if you’re interested in writing for, or 0844 243 7000 Monday to Friday editing, the magazine then do get in touch at the address below. between 9am and 5pm

www.nct.org.uk/clapham Jen Walmsley [email protected] 4 What’s on & what’s new Activities & Courses classes Expecting another baby? The Clapham NCT runs refresher courses Pram Chorus: Singing for little ones. monthly (daytime, women only) Every Thursday, tea and coffee from enabling you to: reflect on your 2.30pm, singing 3 to 4pm. St Stephens previous birth experiences and weigh Church, Weir Road, Balham, SW12 up options for care; discuss post- 0NU. Contact Ruth Routledge on natal coping strategies and how to 07946 900543 email pramchorus@ avoid sibling rivalry; make some new gmail.com contacts with other second / third /

fourth time mums in the area. There is Local NCT Your Baby Sensory Classes at Happy also a session on feeding your baby: Faces Children’s Hair Salon, Webbs your questions answered as well as a Road Fridays 11 – 11.45am Classes reunion when all the babies are born. Talking Coffee: We are looking at a also at the Contact Centre off Abbeville Courses include birth by caesarean, slight change to our Postnatal Teas Road on Thursdays. Contact Demy VBAC and straightforward birth in by setting future dates in each of Watts, 07932 756 744, or visit www. hospital, birth centre or at home. For our areas open to all. If you would babysensory.com for more information. more details: [email protected] like more details or are interested in or 0844 2436927. helping out please contact Natalie Under the Greenwood Tree: Children’s at [email protected] bookshop in Clapham Old Town with First Aid for Life: Emma Hammett carefully selected books alongside a offers a variety of first aid courses, NCT Maternity Sale: We are hoping wide selection of toys and cafe serving including intensive one day paediatric to hold our next sale in October, if you coffee and cakes. Drop in for storytime and early years first aid courses and would like more details or are interested at 11am on Saturdays. short emergency first aid courses. in helping out please contact Natalie at Emergency course dates: [email protected]. Blueberry Playsongs: Drop-in classes 28 September, 6 October, at Common Ground Cafe, Wandsworth 18 October, and 10 November. NCT Baby Show: Croydon’s branch Common. Every Wednesday morning Paediatric course dates: of the NCT is holding a Baby Show on at 9.45, 10.30 and 11.15am. Cost is 29 September, 5, 11, 17, & 25 October, Saturday 20 October at Trinity School, £6 per child or £10 for two children, 11 November. Croydon. More details can be found at further details at www.blueberryplays- Contact Emma 020 8675 4036, [email protected] ongs.co.uk [email protected]. The Cedar House Support Group is Monkey Music introduces very young Natural Balance: Complementary a registered charity based in Guildford children to music in a way they can Practitioner Sara Wood runs baby which helps support mums with post- easily understand and enjoy. Classes massage courses at the Awareness natal depression. This support group run at various venues details at www. Centre, Abbeville Road, SW4 9JX. is hoping to come to Clapham this au- monkeymusic.co.uk Courses run on a Wednesday at either tumn. The groups meet weekly and a 11.30am or 2pm contact Sara for professionally trained counsellor runs The Little Gym offers gymnastics dates. For more information, call the meetings. Liz Wise, the charity’s based development programme for Sara on 07970 729 738 or email counsellor says: “PND is such a ter- young children, as well as parent and [email protected]. rifying illness and often mums suffer in child classes. www.thelittlegym.co.uk silence. Our group offers support and REDI Training is offering a new Paediat- help when mums are feeling low and Waterlife Swim School: Swimming ric First aid Training course, which covers perhaps lonely and very frightened. for babies, toddlers and pre-school- all essential topics in a 3 hour course. We want to help even more mums in ers. Weekday and weekend available Next course Wednesday 17 October South West London, so we are putting Contact www.waterlifeswimschool.com 7pm – 10pm Courses are held at plans in place for this very soon.” Liz Maggie & Rose in Kensington. The is also the PND coordinator for the Battersea Yoga offers mum and baby course is suitable for anyone involved NCT at national level and has over 15 yoga classes. Combines mini pos- in the care of children and cost £80 years experience working in this field. tures and movements with massage, per person. Details can be found at Where to get help: rhyme and song. Helps settle baby’s www.redi-training.co.uk. Cedar House Support Group digestive system, strengthen muscles www.postnataldepression.com/cedar- and encourage motor development. house-support-group Classes are held in Battersea on Liz Wise, Postnatal Depression Coun- Monday and Wednesday at 11.30am. NCT news sellor, Cedar House Support Group, For more information please visit can be contacted at: [email protected], www.batterseayoga.com or call Runaround Playgroup: Our new play- 07773 283556. All calls are confidential. 0207 978 7995. group starts on the 7 September at St The Association for Postnatal Illness, Stephen’s Church, Weir Road, Balham, www.apni.org. They run a free helpline SW12. Join us for a coffee and chat (0207 386 0868 Monday-Friday 10am- while your little ones have fun. See our 2pm) playgroup section for more details. Autumn 12 5 Playgroups A great way to hone your baby’s social skills from an early age – and resurrect your own – at your local playgroup! Battersea Bumps and Babes Day: Monday Time: 10.30am -12.00 noon Where: St Michael’s Church (main entrance), For the most up-to-date details on all our Cobham Close, SW11 6HR playgroups, please visit www.nct.org.uk/clapham Age range: Pregnant mums and under ones

Your Local NCT Your Donation: £2 per child We are always looking for additional playgroup leaders Contact: Emma / Polly / [email protected] to help run each of the groups. If you’d like to help out, What’s on offer: drink, biscuits, opportunity to meet with please speak to your local playgroup leader, or email expectant mums and new parents (sorry, no carers/nannies). [email protected] Battersea Chitter Chatter Day: Monday Time: Two sessions; 9.30-10.20 or 10.30-11.45am Parenting workshops Where: Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN Age range: Babies and toddlers over one year First aid workshops Donation: £2 per child Run in conjunction with Emma Hammett from First Aid Contact: Mark Palmer 07958 292722 / For Life to give you the skills and confidence to know [email protected] what to do in an emergency. Future course dates are What’s on offer: Join us for lots of pre-walking and toddler listed on the events page under the Clapham branch. fun, including a home corner, play tents, musical activities If you would like further information or to book a place and painting. Snacks and a drink will be provided for the please email Naomi at [email protected] children and coffee, tea and biscuits for parents and carers or call 0844 243 6092 and leave a message. Balham Pitter Patter Day: Wednesdays Time: 10-11.30 am Introduction to weaning workshops Where: St Stephen’s Church, Weir Road, SW12 Run by Sharon George, our breastfeeding counsellor, Age range: Newborns, crawlers and those attempting their each session lasts two hours and covers everything first steps from signs of readiness for additional foods to suitable Donation: £2 per child foods for the babies’ stage of development. The Contact: Rachel / [email protected] workshops are best suited for mums and/or dads What’s on offer: Join us for refreshments and take the with babies aged four to six months. If you wish to opportunity to meet and chat with others going through the attend a workshop please contact us for future dates same experiences in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Please email [email protected] for dates The babies will be able to enjoy some very gentle activities and further information such as singing, soft play and stories, especially aimed at little ones. NEW – Clapham Playgroup Early Days Courses Day: Wednesdays Time: 10am – 12 noon Where: St John the Evangelist Church Hall, Clapham Road, Becoming a parent is a life-changing event. It often SW9 0JJ (entrance by the left hand side of the church involves many highs and lows as you get to know your through two sets of doors) baby and adjust to a new way of life. Age range: Newborns, crawlers and those attempting their first steps NCT Early Days courses offer a supportive space to Donation: £2 per child share your experiences of motherhood and reflect on Contact: Rachel / [email protected] how you want to parent your child. What’s on offer: Join us for refreshments and take the opportunity to meet and chat with others going through the The course will cover topics chosen by your group same experiences in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. such as sleeping and crying, changes in your relation- The babies will be able to enjoy some very gentle activities ships, things to do locally with your baby, dealing with such as singing, soft play and stories, especially aimed at advice, going back to work (or not) and childcare. It will little ones. be run by a trained NCT postnatal leader who will help the group share experiences, ideas and information. NEW – Runaround Playgroup Day: Fridays Time: 9.30am – 11am This course will give you the opportunity to explore Where: St Stephen’s Church, Weir Road, SW12 what works best for you and your baby as you begin Age range: Babies and toddlers the exhilarating journey that is parenthood. Donation: £2 per child or £3 per family Contact: Natalie on [email protected] For further information and booking see What’s on offer: Tea and biscuits for the grown-ups and www.nct.org.uk/courses/postnatal or email light snacks for the children, lots of toys and space to run [email protected] or call 0844 243 6927 around and a sing song at the end. www.nct.org.uk/clapham 6 Postnatal teas

A Postnatal Tea is a chance to introduce new mothers to each other in their immediate area. If you are a member, then you will automatically receive an invitation to a tea, These teas are not “drop ins” and an RSVP to an invitation would be appreciated! If you have not received an invitation within a month of your baby being born, or are new to the area, or not a member, please contact Helen Gilbert, our postnatal tea coordinator:

Postnatal Coordinator: Helen Gilbert [email protected]

Please send all enquiries for postnatal teas Local NCT Your direct to the host coordinator Wanted! Battersea Do you enjoy meeting new people? We are Hosts: Francesca Liberatore currently looking for volunteers to help host teas in all areas especially Battersea, Balham Clapham North & Old Town and Clapham Common. If you are interested Hosts: Alicia Stewart and can spare two – four hours a month or would like further details please contact: Balham Helen Gilbert at [email protected]. Hosts: Natalie Thomas

Thank you Northcote & Nightingale: Hosts: Penny Stubbs, Amanda Squire Training with NCT Do you want to work with practitioner training are a further £3,000 for each special- parents as they experi- ism. Further fees are payable to study for the foundation ence pregnancy, birth and and honours degrees. life as a new parent? Are you looking for a stimulat- NCT will provide information and support for students wishing ing vocation to fit in with to explore ways of reducing the cost of their training including family life? In September career development and student loans, grants and bursaries. 2012, NCT launches the new NCT training For more information on the new NCT training programme programme, validated by and to register your interest in applying visit the University of Worces- www.nct.org.uk/nct-college. ter. Students joining this programme will follow core training with modules on re- flective practice, facilitating adult group learning, giving birth, the new family and the developing baby. Upon completion of the core training, students will be awarded a Certificate in Volunteer welcomes Higher Education, become a birth and beyond practitioner, and be able to facilitate pregnancy, birth and beyond cours- and goodbyes es. At this point, students may choose to continue studying to become a specialist birth and beyond practitioner as an antenatal teacher, postnatal leader or breastfeeding counsel- A huge thank you to: • Siobhan Collier, membership secretary and good luck with lor. Beyond this, there are options to follow a foundation de- the move to Gloucestershire. Welcome to Joe Frankham gree to become an advanced birth and beyond practitioner who takes over membership. or an honours degree to become a birth and beyond tutor. • Outgoing First Aid Courses Coordinator, Naomi Thorley, and Florence Brocklesby, Open House coffee host. Students commencing the common core training will be able • PR officers Amy Tarr and Lauren Philip and welcome to to choose to study full-time or part-time. No specific academic Alicia Stewart who is taking over. qualifications are required to be accepted onto the core train- ing however students are required to have experience as an • Thank you to all our volunteers past and present, we couldn’t offer so many activities and events to the parents NCT volunteer. If you are interested in training, then please of Balham, Clapham & Battersea without you. contact the branch [email protected] to find out about volunteering opportunities. Welcome to: • Welcome to new Balham Breastfeeding Café helpers The fees for the core birth and beyond practitioner training Alison Hargreaves and Natasha Blackstock. will be £6,000 studying full-time for a year or £3,000 a year for part-time study. The fees for specialist birth and beyond Autumn 12 7 NCT needs your support

NCT is the UK’s leading parenting charity. Your membership helps the NCT support thousands of parents each year, as well as funding its campaigning work to improve maternity care and ensure better services and facilities for new parents.

And on top of that, you get this fabulous magazine four times a year too!

Your Local NCT Your To renew your NCT membership, visit www.nct.org.uk/join or phone 0844 243 7000 Why I volunteer, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm by Alison Hargreaves

During my first pregnancy and in the time since “the NCT has been a great source of support for me. I greatly value the friendships I made through the Have you ever thought of NCT and have been impressed with the wide range of services and social activities that our local branch volunteering for NCT? provides. Following the birth of my second son, I be- The branch is run solely by volunteers and gan to volunteer at the Balham breastfeeding drop-in we are always looking for extra pairs of clinic. It is the perfect opportunity to give something hands. The branch team meets on a monthly back whilst meeting new local mums. Plus I am able basis to socialise and oversee branch to bring my baby with me and pick up some breast- activities. Most of us are parents to young feeding tips along the way. Breastfeeding was a “hot children ourselves and enjoy giving a little topic” among members of my NCT group and I know time to ensure that all local families have that many, if not most, new mums struggle with feed- access to the enormous resources offered ing at some point. It has been rewarding to volunteer by NCT. Volunteering is a great way to meet at the clinic and see so many mums receive the help other parents and we have roles suitable for and reassurance provided by the counsellors. all time commitments and interests.

Current vacancies ”

Postnatal tea hosts: The teas are informal get-to- Nearly New Sale coordinators: Enjoy shopping?

gethers which are invaluable in allowing new mums Join our Nearly New Sales team and help with to meet other mums in their area. Time commitment: planning, promoting & running our ever popular two to four hours per month and teas can be organised sales. Time commitment: up to three sales a year. at your convenience.

First aid courses coordinator: We are looking for

Fundraising and social event coordinators: an organised person to manage our our first aid

Are you a good organiser and enjoy socialising? courses. You will coordinate with the course provider Join our team of event organisers and raise money on dates and venues and deal with booking enquiries for the NCT. Role includes coming up with ideas, from parents. You do not need to attend the actual planning and managing events. Time commitment: courses and the role is fully flexible and can be two hours per week, flexible. conducted by email at times that suit you. Time commitment: two hours a week, flexible.

Breastfeeding cafe helpers: We are looking to add to our team of volunteers who help out at our breast- Please email [email protected] feeding drop-in. The role is essentially about meeting if you are interested in either of these positions. and greeting mums attending the drop-in, serving If you would like to get more involved in the Clapham NCT, refreshments, taking bookings for breastfeeding why not come along to a branch meeting and meet the counsellor consultations and venue set-up and tidy branch team. We meet each month and our up. Time commitment: one session a month on a next meeting is at 8pm 1 October 2012. Monday between 10am-12noon. Please contact Jenny / Natalie at [email protected] for further details.

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 8 Mummy me-time NCT Nearly New Keep up-to-date Get your diaries out and check Sales Update the website for more details of Please visit our website for up- Don’t forget to put the next our great hairdressing, photogra- dates on forthcoming events and Nearly New Sale in your diary! phy and interior design courses. activities – (www.nct.org.uk/ The date is confirmed for clapham). If you’re not receiving Saturday 22 September at If you have an idea for a Mummy our regular emails on events and Broomwood Hall, Kryle Road. Me-Time please contact Amanda would like to, please contact We will also be holding a nearly at [email protected]. our Membership Secretary at new toy sale on Saturday www.nct.org.uk/clapham. [email protected]. 24 November. We also have a Facebook page (search for “Clapham NCT”) Contact nearlynewsales@clap- hamnct.com for details of how to sign up as a seller and more

information Local NCT Your

( NCT’s Shared Come along to the weekly Balham Experiences Helpline Breastfeeding Cafe The NCT’s Shared Experiences helpline offers support, parent to parent, on If you are breastfeeding or a range of difficult experiences, through pregnancy, birth, early parenthood, planning to breastfeed, would and infant feeding. You will be able to talk to an NCT volunteer who has had a like support and information on similar experience to you and has some understanding about what you’re go- breastfeeding or would just like ing through. We will also be able to point you in the right direction for further to meet some other breastfeeding support from other relevant organisations. mums, then drop-in to Clapham NCT’s breastfeeding cafe The helpline number is 0300 330 0700. It is open Tuesday, Wednesday and every Monday between 10am Thursday 9am – 3pm, with an answer machine available at all times – 12noon at the Salvation Army Coffee Lounge, 38 Balham High If you’ve had a challenging experience during your pregnancy, birth or early Road. All welcome to drop-in parenthood and would like to volunteer so that you can help us to make a for free information and support difference to parents who really need us, contact Ali Macleod, Shared Experi- from qualified NCT breastfeeding ences Helpline Coordinator, on [email protected] or call 07525 769962. counsellors. Contact Julie, balhambreastfeedingcafe@gmail. com for further information or visit www.nct.org.uk/ clapham for local Support for clapham breastfeeding mums with postnatal resources. depression The Cedar House Support Group is a registered char- ity based in Guildford which helps support mums with postnatal depression. This support group is hoping to Having trouble with come to Clapham this autumn. The groups meet weekly and a professionally trained counsellor (who also suffered PND twice) runs the your little one? meetings. Liz Wise, the charity’s counsellor, says: “PND is such a terrifying ill- Join us for an exclusive event with ness and often mums suffer in silence. Our group offers support and help when Kathryn Mewes, author of The mums are feeling low and perhaps lonely and very frightened. We want to help 3 day Nanny (see p.62 for book even more mums in South West London, so we are putting plans in place for review) on 1 October at 8pm at this very soon.” Liz is also the PND coordinator for the NCT at national level and Under the Greenwood Tree in has over 15 years experience working in this field. Clapham. Kathryn will be talking about encouraging independ- For further information on postnatal depression: ence, handling tantrums and Cedar House Support Group, potty training.There will be lots www.postnataldepression.com/cedar-house-support-group of opportunities to ask questions Liz Wise, Postnatal Depression Counsellor, Cedar House Support Group, as well as the chance to browse can be contacted at: [email protected] / 07773 283556. this lovely toy and book shop with All calls are confidential 10% off all purchases.Tickets are The Association for Postnatal Illness, www.apni.org run a free helpline (0207 £5 in advance and include light 386 0868 Monday-Friday 10am-2pm) refreshments. Contact events@ claphamnct.com. Autumn 12 9 Meet the volunteer Name: Al Walmsley Husband: Jen Lives: Clapham South Children: Millie (5), Gus (3) and Esme (9 months) Role: general dogsbody Your Local NCT Your

How was childbirth for you? What was the best piece of advice parenthood seems like a good way of As a husband / father I am obviously someone gave you when you first saying thank you to the people who did on dangerous ground here, but all became a parent? the same for us. Plus they don’t let me of our children’s births have been As every parent knows, everyone has do any of the important stuff anyway, so relatively straightforward. We have had an opinion on your parenting style and it’s a good opportunity for someone who all three at home, much to our family what kids need to be happy. They are works in an office to lug a few tables and friends’ concern initially, but home almost always wrong. The one piece of around for a change. was always going to be where Jen was advice that I think every parent should most comfortable and hence where the take on board is to learn not to beat What would you say to someone experience was most likely to be posi- yourself up when you get things wrong. thinking of volunteering? tive. For us, it was absolutely the right There’s no point wasting time thinking decision, although Esme did arrive in a What have you found the most re- about it – what are you waiting for?! bit of a hurry and was delivered before warding about parenthood? the midwives got there. I am not sure Seeing things through children’s eyes Are you still in touch with your NCT I would have been as calm if she had is like re-experiencing some of your antenatal group? been our first… own childhood. Their amazement in I think that antenatal groups in general the everyday – be it a butterfly or a are more important for the mums in Best and worst things about funny-shaped stick, their laughter at establishing a ready-made network of being pregnant? each other – so many things that they people who are sharing similar experi- The best thing was, of course, having do force me to reappraise my own ences at similar times. As a father, at a free taxi service on nights out. The world-weary cynicism. least some elements of your life, like worst thing was not having anyone working, tend to be unaffected by par- to share a bottle of wine with of an And what do you find the greatest enthood, so there isn’t quite the same evening. Pregnancy was a disaster challenge in being a parent? sense of your entire world being turned for my liver and waistline. When you aren’t tired it is incredibly upside down. That said, we still see easy to come up with all the little dis- three of the couples in our NCT group How has having children changed traction techniques that parents use to regularly and to one of the mums – she your philosophy of life? get their children to do what they want, knows who she is – I will be eternally It’s a cliché, but having kids changes avoid tantrums and generally maintain grateful for her being a voice of com- everything. The most obvious exam- household harmony. Of course, when mon sense and humour who ensured ple for me is work. Previously I never you are tired… nothing seemed too overwhelming for questioned my decision to commit to Jen, even in the early days when we a career which required compromises What encouraged you to volunteer truly didn’t know what we were doing. in every other aspect of my life, but I for your NCT role? have just finished taking a year off to I think of the NCT as an extremely What is your ideal way to spend a spend time with the family, and it’s the important element of the community child-free afternoon, or evening? best career decision I have ever made. in which we live, particularly as parents Getting out in the hills with family or I had never felt any compelling urge of young children in a pretty transient friends, either on foot or on a bike, to have kids, but now they are here I city. Volunteering for something that earning the pints that you’ll drink in can’t imagine having or wanting a life you see as important in helping people front of a log fire later the same day. without them. get through some of the challenges of

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 10 The Panel

< Emma Hammett First Aid for Life [email protected] Ask the experts www.firstaidforlife.org.uk 0208 675 4036 Our panel of local experts answers your questions about James Hardy > Master personal trainer pregnancy, birth and early and sports massage therapist www.LiveFit.co.uk parenthood. Please email us 07870 690997 0207 385 0688 on [email protected] if you would like to ask the < Adam Beaumont BA DO Registered osteopath panel anything

Specialising in the treatment of babies Local NCT Your and children 020 223 7171.

How can I tell if How soon after giving Is my colicky baby a head injury is birth can I start allergic to milk? serious? Sometimes mothers come to me exercising again? with a colicky baby and ask whether Fortunately, most head injuries affect The transition to motherhood is a their baby could be allergic to milk. the scalp only, which is usually more demanding time, mums’ needs often My response is that it is possible but frightening than life threatening. The come a distant second. But it has been what little research has been done head and face are very vascular and shown that healthy mothers tend to shows that they are no more likely to consequently injuries bleed an awful have healthier children with lower body be allergic to milk than other normal lot. However, severe or repeated head fat. Mum’s health and baby’s – physical babies. However a cow’s milk allergy injuries can cause damage to the brain. and mental – are therefore intertwined. is reasonably common in bottle fed babies. Many mums ask whether their You should phone an ambulance if 1-6 weeks: No focussed “exercise” baby pulling away when on the breast an infant loses consciousness, even but walking and looking after babies suggests that their baby is allergic to momentarily; or if a child of any age will keep mums active. Pelvic floor ex- milk. I believe babies who pull away has any of these symptoms: ercises could commence immediately from their mother’s breast when feed- to begin the process of repair. Build ing are probably suffering more from • won’t stop crying up to three sets of eight contractions reflux than being allergic to milk. • has trouble breathing, or is a day. Eating well is difficult, but plan unnaturally drowsy or fitting well and try using soups, fruit, pre- If you think that your baby is allergic • complains of head and neck pain made salads, nuts, cold fish and meats check for any of these signs: • isn’t walking normally to minimise cooking time. • vomits more than once • Vomiting – you may find this hap- • pupils don’t react swiftly and 6-12 weeks: After a successful post- pens soon after a feed – it does evenly when a torch is shone into natal check up – or after eight weeks not have to be substantial them, unequal pupils or a weak- if you’ve had a caesarean – gentle • Increasing amounts of mucus ness down one side of their body. exertion should begin. This should start from the nose and blocked nose • Obvious skull fracture or watery gradually but immediately, the best • Gut discomfort with little relation- blood seeping from the ears window for returning to fitness and ship to feeds or nose. weight starts now. • Odd rashes or eczema

If your child is alert and behaving nor- 12-18 weeks: At this point you should It may also be worth checking your mally after the injury apply a wrapped be able to train as normal. Be mindful and your partner’s family history to ice pack to the injured area for 10 of your balance, but there is nothing see if there any other known aller- minutes and give paediatric ibuprofen stopping you now working at pre- gies or if there is anyone who dislikes or paracetamol to ease their pain. pregnancy level. drinking milk. If your baby does turn They can have a short sleep, how- out to be allergic to milk your GP will ever check them regularly. If you aren’t be able to help you with the manage- comfortable with your child’s appear- ment of the problem. ance (trust your instincts), partially wake them, they should object and attempt to resettle. If they don’t, try to wake them fully. If your child won’t wake up, call an ambulance immediately. Keep an eye on your child over the next couple of days for any of the above symptoms

First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsi- ble or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information. Autumn 12 11 The lowdown on gestational diabetes Pregnancy Anna Waldron, a dietician specialising in diabetes and mum to Oscar and Mietta (3 and 1) gives an overview of gestational diabetes

What is gestational diabetes? lentils, baked beans, sweetcorn and sweet potato. Gestational diabetes is the type of diabetes which devel- However, the quantity you eat is also important so ops during pregnancy and lasts just for the remainder of you may need to also reduce your serving size too. the pregnancy. It is usually diagnosed via a screening test • Limit the amount of high sugar foods and drinks you at around week 28 of the pregnancy when the levels of consume. glucose, or sugar, in the blood are found to be higher than • Ensure you include at least five portions of fruit and normal. Some women who have a higher risk of develop- vegetables in your diet every day. ing gestational diabetes may be tested for diabetes earlier • Stay active with regular walking and other exercise in their pregnancy. Women who have a family history of suitable during pregnancy if you are able to. diabetes, are overweight or previously had a baby weighing more than 4.5 kilograms have a greater risk of developing If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes you will be gestational diabetes. taught how to check your own BGLs with a blood glucose meter. By checking your BGLs you will know whether the Gestational diabetes is not uncommon and affects between changes you have made to your diet and your activity levels two and five percent of pregnancies in the UK. are controlling your diabetes. Up to one in five women require tablets or insulin injections to control their diabetes as dietary Why do women develop diabetes in pregnancy? changes and exercise alone aren’t enough to lower the BGLs The pregnancy hormones change the body’s requirement for everyone. Your health professional will advise you on for insulin which works to keep the blood glucose levels how to check your BGLs, the levels you are aiming for and (BGLs) in the normal range. People who are insulin resistant whether you need insulin treatment. require very large amounts of insulin to prevent the level of BGLs becoming too high. The body can compensate for a What should you do after having the baby? while by producing more insulin but eventually it will not be Generally gestational diabetes only lasts while you are preg- able to produce the amount required to maintain BGLs at a nant and your BGLs then return to normal once you have healthy level. had your baby. This is checked at your six week post-natal review. However, having had gestational diabetes you have How do you treat gestational diabetes? a greater chance of developing diabetes at some stage so If you are diagnosed with diabetes during pregnancy it is annual diabetes screening is strongly recommended. You essential to learn how to manage it properly. One of the can reduce your risk of developing diabetes later – as well problems caused by untreated diabetes and high blood as other conditions such as heart disease and stroke – by glucose levels is a large baby. This can present difficulties maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating well, staying active and at birth and increase the chances of requiring a caesarean ensuring that you remain within the healthy weight range. or forceps delivery as well as other potential complications. Sometimes babies whose mothers are suffering from diabe- The arrival of a new baby it is a great time to adopt a healthier tes need special care after delivery to help normalise their lifestyle and invest in the health of the whole family. blood glucose levels.

The key to looking after yourself when you have diabetes is to learn about how what you eat affects your BGLs and Generally gestational make the necessary changes to your food intake. Maintain- ing regular physical activity will also help to lower your BGLs. diabetes only lasts while you are pregnant and your BGLs Here are some ways to help lower your BGLs: “ • Spread your food intake out across the day in the form then return to normal once of smaller meals and snacks rather than large meals • Learn more about carbohydrates. Some foods contain you have had your baby a form of carbohydrate which is more slowly absorbed (has a low glycaemic index) and therefore may have less effect on your BGLs. Examples of lower glycaemic index foods are wholegrain bread, pasta, basmati rice, Further inform@tion:” Check the Diabetes UK website for more information www.nct.org.uk/clapham www.diabetes.org.uk 12 An early arrival Victoria Howes, mum to Siena (10 months) shares her experience of giving birth five weeks early Pregnancy

It was just over five weeks until my due date, I still had a couple of weeks left at work and a long list of things I wanted to do before our new arrival. It was a busy Friday in the office, followed by dinner with friends, and I finally collapsed into bed at 11.30pm. Around 1.30am I was woken with a strange feeling that I can only describe as “leaking”. I ran to the bathroom to and realised my waters had broken. My initial reaction was to stay calm, I hadn’t had any contractions yet and I assumed that the midwife would tell me to go back to bed and wait.

My partner, Paulo, called the hospital and they advised us to go in straight away. Panic set in then, I hadn’t packed my Siena was in hospital for eight days and at the time they felt hospital bag, I hadn’t gone through my birth plan with the like the longest eight days of my life. I was able to stay in midwives, I hadn’t done my call list for Paulo and I didn’t feel hospital for three days and after that time I was discharged ready to have a baby that night. I only realised when we were to go home. Leaving hospital that night to go back to an in the taxi on the way to hospital that I was still in my pyja- empty house was awful. We just sat and watched TV in si- mas and slippers with no sensible clothes to go home in. lence, thinking we should be back in hospital with our baby, taking care of her and bonding with her. It felt very surreal By the time we arrived at hospital my contractions had that we had a baby and I wasn’t pregnant anymore, but she started, and were around 10 minutes apart. Waiting in wasn’t with us. It was also difficult receiving cards and texts reception the midwife came to meet us and after taking of congratulations from friends and family as we didn’t feel one look at me, announced that I wasn’t in labour, but like celebrating until she was home. said she would take me to a room to be monitored. Ironically everyone in my antenatal group gave birth almost Less than an hour and a half later Siena arrived. It was a two weeks later than their due dates. When we brought very quick natural birth and she weighed just under five Siena home they all came around with cake and flowers. I pounds. Straight after birth it was obvious that her breath- think it will be the only time I will be waited on by six heavily ing was laboured and she was struggling. pregnant ladies.

I had to go into theatre to have a manual placenta removal, so Paulo stayed with Siena and went with her when she It felt very surreal that was taken to the NICU (Neonatal intensive care unit). She was placed on assisted breathing and attached to a feeding we had a baby and I wasn’t tube and a drip. pregnant anymore, but she Coming out of theatre I was put into a shared recovery “ room. This was the worst period; I was sharing a room with wasn’t with us. two other new mothers, their families and new arrivals. It was a huge reminder that my baby wasn’t with me and was fighting for her life in another part of the hospital. Paulo had gone home to sleep for a few hours and set up the cot and ” nursery, so I was all alone and waiting for a spinal tap to wear off.

After a few hours, I was able to visit Siena in NICU. She looked so vulnerable and small attached to so much machinery. Every noise and beep from the monitors would make me panic and want to call a doctor.

The staff printed me out a photo and explained to me exactly what treatment she was getting and why. They thought she had fluid on her lungs because the delivery was so fast, but couldn’t rule out a lung infection, so she was given a course of antibiotics. As the days went on and her condition improved, the nurses let us do more and more for her, they encouraged me to express every three hours and then we fed her breastmilk via a feeding tube. Autumn 12 13 Not the start I expected Janet Lindsey mum to Jake and Alex (5 and 3) shares her experience of recovering from a fourth degree tear

Birth Pregnancy/ One hour after giving birth to my beautiful baby I am lying on the operating table staring up those extremely bright lights, not actually feeling anything except exhaustion and relief it is all over. Or is it? After 39 hours of labour, the last 12 being attached to a monitor checking the baby’s heart rate, I almost laugh to myself with the irony of my present situation. I was adamant I wasn’t going to have an epidural, and I’m proud that I did push my baby out using only gas and air, but here I I was under the hospital for nine months and the support and am anaesthetised from the waist down being stitched up by advice from St Thomas’s was fantastic. I was seen locally by two doctors discussing the weather. my GP and referred for physiotherapy to help get the muscles back into shape. It was as odd as you would imagine having Being threatened with forceps or ventouse was not an option someone help me strengthen those particular muscles and I for me and I pushed the baby out with such determination had to continue for some time with the pelvic floor exercises, and so fast that I ended up with fourth degree tears. Third and but the result was that everything was back working nor- fourth degree tears happen when the perineum tears during mally within a few months. I knew that if I didn’t stick with the the birth. This can injure a muscle called the anal sphincter, a exercises I may not regain full control of my sphincter muscles double ring of muscle that voluntarily controls the opening and – not a nice thought at the age of 40. closing of the sphincter. A fourth degree tear is quite rare, and extends completely through the anus. Yes, ouch! I was subsequently assessed during my second pregnancy and advised the same thing could happen again so opted for Three days later I am sitting on a breastfeeding cushion in the a caesarean. Not all women who have third or fourth degree car next to my poor husband who is trying to drive me home tears have to have a caesarean for subsequent babies, many without the car going over a single bump. “I have to do at manage to give birth naturally. least 20 miles an hour,” he says as the traffic backs up behind us. Despite the strong drugs I just want the journey to end. Life is a journey, and having a baby is not usually easy which- ever path you end up taking. It is good to have a birth plan, At home, I manage with some great help from family, some but it is also good to know that anything can happen along very strong painkillers, and those wonderful breastfeeding the way. I’m not going lie and say it was an easy journey and I cushions to sit on. Breastfeeding lying down is awkward and know it’s a cliché, but a lot of the pain is blanked out when you disturbing for my husband as he gets out of bed at all hours hold your beautiful baby and realise it was all worthwhile. to help me position the baby on a pillow and burps him before returning him to his Moses basket. Walking and climbing stairs is painful and tricky for a while, but exercise really helps Tear prevention with the healing process and I find carrying the baby around in a harness easier than pushing a pram in the early days. A One of the most common issues that pregnant women healthy diet is important for my recovery and I was advised to fret about is how to avoid vaginal tearing during child- add chamomile to my bath water, which seems to help. The birth. Here are some things you can do to try and help different layers of stitches are cleverly designed to dissolve as minimize your chances, or the extent of, a tear. the weeks go by. Perineal massage: especially in first-time mothers the vaginal tissue can be very tight and inflexible. One way that you can help increase the elasticity of this tissue is to massage the perineum regularly during the last six It was as odd as you weeks of pregnancy. would imagine having some- Avoid an assisted birth: ventouse and forceps deliver- ies are more likely to cause a vaginal tear because they one help me strengthen involve pulling the baby forcefully through the vagina. “ Unless it’s an emergency, ask your midwife to avoid an those particular muscles assisted delivery if possible.

Kegels (pelvic floor exercises): practice before birth to strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor. These will not only prevent against incontinence, but can help ” protect against tears and improve healing time if you www.nct.org.uk/clapham do tear. 14 Birth story Birth Karen Beasley mum to Francesco (3 months) tells the story of his birth

As a Virgo, I’m a perfectionist with a written list or plan for everything. I’ll not deny it, I over-prepared. I took both NCT and hospital antenatal classes, the hospital tour, listened to CDs, did yoga with my partner, yoga with pregnant friends, joined a walking club, looked at websites, downloaded apps, and read more magazines and books than I want to admit to.

My birth plan was documented by week 20 with an expect- ed chorological order for sleeping, bathing, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)-machine usage, eating, walking and yoga at home. Once taxied to the hospital, I planned to use gas and air, the birthing pool and for my partner to cut the cord and be involved in the early skin to skin moments. And we would discover our baby’s gender on our own, wouldn’t we? Sadly, by midnight the intervals between my contractions had lengthened which meant my labour was slowing down I was due on 10 June and, even though less than five per so my midwife forced me to return to dry land. I spent the cent of babies arrive on their due date, I had an inkling my next two hours pushing in various recommended positions. child would arrive on time, punctual like his mother. So imag- My waters broke but for some reason I was unable to push ine my surprise when 15 June came along, and still no baby. my baby out. I started to approach the maximum time al- lowed for this stage of labour and was asking for increased I was four days overdue but had four appointments to keep pain relief. After waiting half an hour for the anaesthetist I so I continued my busy schedule despite some uncomfort- gave my consent for a spinal tap and an episiotomy and able period pains in my lower back beginning about lunch- forceps birth. time. It was a relief to be home and, even though sleeping was impossible and the TENS machine felt strange, a hot A dozen staff surrounded me in the operation theatre where bath soothed my aches. Every now and again it would be I lost feeling from my chest down for about six hours. The more painful, until eventually I timed intervals to seven min- next contraction saw my baby’s arrival. My supportive part- utes apart. I think I had been putting it off to avoid knowing ner cut the cord and then I saw my baby for the first time, a how far along my labour was. Then I had a “show” and white bottom with male parts was making its way towards this galvanised us to phone our on-call midwife team. As me. It still makes me laugh that I saw my son’s bottom before I they were not available, St Thomas’s advised us to come saw his face! The third stage had already been completed but straight in. my stitches took what felt like forever.

During our car journey I was really nervous for three rea- Feeding came easily but sleeping did not. The excitement, sons. Firstly, we had taken our car and my waters had not shock and hormones keep you awake even when your broken yet, secondly, I was convinced that I was going to baby is sleeping soundly. punch my partner for his mundane chit-chat and thirdly that hospital staff would say I was too early and send me home. I’ve learnt that there is no such thing as a “perfect” birth. We therefore decided to leave our bags in the car to plan A healthy mother and baby is all you can wish for. We thank for the worst case scenario. Clapham Family Practice midwife team and St Thomas’s for supporting us in delivering our beautiful son, Francesco. I was already threatening to destroy our natural birth plan and half an hour pacing a busy hospital reception didn’t help. Finally at about nine in the evening my midwife and student nurse examined me and casually announced I was already ten centimetres dilated. I couldn’t believe it. Immediately I was taken to the birthing pool where I re- laxed with music and gas and air. Some people say it makes them sick but in fact, not having had dinner, I was hungry and sleepy.

I was convinced that I was going to punch my partner for “his mundane chit-chat Autumn 12 ” 15 Birth Birth announcements 2011-2012

Rebecca Wilde’s course November 2011 Lorna & Chris Potter William Henry Bear 19/10/11 Claire & Chris Linnell George Christopher 5/11/11 Karolina & Dylan Dreyer Jessica Kathryn 6/11/11 Anna & Will Ingram Florence Cora-Anne 9/11/11 Alice Kang & Matthew Walls Nathaniel Daehan 29/11/11 Anna Shipsey & Tom Adams George James 30/11/11 Sarah Gausden Phoebe Sophia 6/12/11 & Nick Mason Phoenix

Dot Parry’s course November 2011 Karen Tulloch Elijah Sitota 19/11/11 & Wondwossen Deress Shume Ondine & Ed Whittington Arabella May 4/12/11 Shilo Moody William Tristan 7/12/ 11 & David Beare Jennifer Hutchinson Rafferty Nicholas 13/12/11 & Xavier Osipczak James Kathryn & James West Ella Jean 14/12/11 Heulwen Van de Weyer Imogen Jane May 14/12/11 & Ross Tudor

Christine Foster’s course January 2012 Sarah Savaskan’s course February 2012 Beatrijs Lelijveld Marléne Lucy 17/02/12 Ffion & Thomas Leary Betsan Mollie 21/03/12 & Tim Versteegen Sophia Natalie Loughlin Ava May 22/03/12 Jenny & Matthew Garnham Benjamin 21/02/12 & Mark Bryant Liz Frain & James Bliss Jacob Daniel 24/02/12 Marj & David Brown Patrick Daniel 23/03/12 Clare & Chris Houston Eva Grace 7/03/12 & Mark Bryant Jess & Nick Hayes Annabelle Lily 15/03/12 Jenny & Max Shand Beatrix Gillie 28/03/12 Gillian & Simon Mann Amelie Robilliard 17/03/12 Tess Shorney Brody Andrew 31/03/12 Trinh & Daniel Chubbock Alexa Minh 20/03/12 & Gregory Okeefe Danyelle & Jim Stubbs Gray Chiara & Taro Hutchings Oliver Alberto 1/04/12 Yasuhiro Lyndsay & Dylan Foo Eli Simon 12/04/12

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 16 Birth

Christine Foster’s course February March 2012 Sarah Savaskan course April 2012 Lisa & Alistair Morgan Max Vincent 8/04/12 Carmen Broadella Iris 4/05/12 Karen & Richard Brown Noah Stanley 9/04/12 & Noel Hawke Sara Glassberg Cecelia Jane 12/04/12 Sasha & Cameron Leslie Finn Charles 17/05/12 & David Pocock Zoe Webster & Steven Hall May Laila Evelyn 23/05/12 Katharine & John Driver James William 20/04/12 Janet & Ian Drury Lawrence Beau 23/05/12 Maria & Alun Dawson Aoife Rose 20/04/12 Nicola Gollan Maximilian James 4/06/12 Camilla & Steve Webster Clara Constance 26/04/12 & Marko Hoare Eleanor Jacqueline Ednie Charlotte Mae Alice 8/06/12 Karen & David Newton Oliver Charles 27/04/12 & Stefan Jade Clare Williams & Matt Long Max Pearson David 29/04/12 Karen Beasley Francesco Michael 15/06/12 Niki Avraam Sofia 7/05/12 & Federico Giannandrea & David De Santiago

Other members’ babies Suzanne Fowler Evans course March 2012 Mark and Eloise Campion Oliver John 04/07/12 Louise Butler & James Paul Thomas 4/04/12 Helen & Adam Sargent William 4/04/12 Micheala Binotto & Heidi 17/04/12 John Madden Davina & Oliver Bird Theodore Arthur 28/04/12 Alexander Anna & William Garrod James Robert 28/04/12 How do I get my baby’s name in Special Delivery? Please speak to your NCT course leader about publishing your baby’s name in these birth announcement pages. The instructor will co-ordinate (or ask a member of each group Mariana Bubna-Kasteliz’s course March 2012 to co-ordinate) a list of new arrivals per group and then email Rachel Ludo 11/04/12 them to [email protected]. & Philip Blennerhassett Annette Hellweg Henry and Benjamin 23/04/12 NCT members can also contact this email address to request & Tim Abbott our announcement template and then send us their group’s Orla & Jonathan Hughes Conor 28/04/12 details directly. If you are not part of an antenatal group, you Jo & Tom Fegen Ben 4/05/12 may send an individual announcement to this email address. Karen & Adam White Harvey 24/05/12 We also welcome photographs of your new babies to include in these pages and throughout the magazine. They need to be high resolution (so at least 1MB). Please email them to the same address.

The deadline for birth announcements to appear in the Winter edition of Special Delivery is 7th October 2012. Autumn 12 17 Overcoming the early hurdles Julie Morris, NCT antenatal teacher and trainee breast- feeding counsellor, on some common problems and how

Breastfeeding to deal with them When breastfeeding works, it can be convenient and enjoya- ble, as well as providing the optimum nutrition for your baby. But it doesn’t always go smoothly. This article talks about two of the most common early problems – sore nipples and breast engorgement – and what to do about them.

Sore nipples Many mums come to the NCT breastfeeding cafe because they are experiencing sore nipples. Sore nipples can develop cracks if not treated early and these can be extremely pain- ful. The main cause is poor positioning of the baby at the small amounts of a moisture barrier cream such as petroleum breast as a baby who is not latched on correctly tends to jelly or lanolin to nipple cracks after a feed the damaged skin “chew” on the nipple in an attempt to obtain milk. If your has a chance to heal. nipple looks distorted or pinched, for example like a new lipstick, after feeding then this is a strong indicator that po- Thrush, blebs, engorgement, mastitis and tongue-tie can all sitioning is not as good as it could be. Lanolin-based cream cause sore nipples too. or other unguent such as Vaseline can help with protect- ing damaged nipples while positioning is being improved. Thrush These options will only work however if positioning and Thrush is a yeast infection that can be transferred between attachment is being worked on. mother and baby during breastfeeding. It can result in nipple soreness as well as deep pains in the breast and discomfort La Leche League’s book, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding for babies. Problems with positioning at the breast cause a has lots of good tips as well as information about resolv- range of symptoms. These can sometimes be confused ing sore nipples. The book explains that babies can tense with thrush so it is important to get help with positioning up when they want to be allowed to do the job themselves, your baby as soon as possible and eliminate nipple sore- or cannot get the mouthful they want if they are held in an ness as the cause of any problems. Research indicates that unsuitable position. Birth medications can also cause tempo- it is very unlikely for mothers and babies younger than six rary problems with how alert and coordinated a baby is in their weeks old to have Thrush. This publication by The Breast- early days. feeding Network (BFN) is a really useful guide to establishing whether your problems are due to sore nipples or thrush. Sometimes only one nipple is sore. This can be because the http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/pdfs/Differ- mother finds it simpler to latch the baby on to one breast ential_Diagnosis_of_Nipple_Pain_March_2009.pdf. BFN rather than the other, and may come down to being right also have a very helpful leaflet on their website that you or left-handed. It’s important to get help with any sore- can share with your health professional if you think you do ness as soon as possible and to look at approaches that have thrush. This information explains the most effective work with your baby’s instincts and reflexes such as bio- courses of medication and how to apply them. http://www. logical nurturing or “laid-back breastfeeding.” By working breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/pdfs/BfN_Thrush_leaf- with your baby’s in-built reflexes and instincts you will find let_Feb_2009.pdf that they latch themselves onto the breast comfortably, just like other mammals do. White nipple and white spot (blebs) Sometimes sore nipples go white and are either numb or The key step to take if you are experiencing any soreness burn and tingle. This is often a result of poor positioning is to get help straightaway. Please take a look at the Breast- of the baby and may also be caused by getting cold or by feeding Support page in this Newsletter to find your closest emotional stress. Smoking and coffee may make the condi- drop-in or clinic. The Helpline telephone numbers listed can tion worse. Nipple pore endings can become blocked, and also be extremely helpful, especially if you’re experiencing this can be associated with the breast not being drained problems in the evening or at the weekend. fully, perhaps due to positioning problems. If you can see that there is a white spot on the nipple tip that does not Treating sore nipples wipe away it would be helpful to speak to a breastfeeding Improving positioning is the most effective way to heal sore counsellor for information about clearing this and exploring nipples. While your nipples are recovering you can help the why it has arisen. skin to heal. Research indicates that keeping the wound clean with gentle soap and water followed by moist-wound healing Engorgement and mastitis is the most effective way to help. It’s the same principle as ap- Engorged breasts are distended, sometimes so much that plying lip balm when you get sore or cracked lips. By applying the nipple retreats under surrounding tissue. Breasts may www.nct.org.uk/clapham 18 affected area can also be helpful. Do not forget your other breast while you are doing this. If the baby is not using the second breast as much, apply warm compresses and ex- press milk to keep it flowing. Exercises that entail over-arm movements, such as circling like a windmill, increase blood circulation to the inflamed area and aid healing. However, don’t overdo it as you will benefit from as much sleep as you can get. You can take anti-inflammatory and painkillers such as paracetamol to treat the symptoms.

If unfortunately flu-like symptoms do develop, see your doc- tor quickly and request antibiotics that are compatible with breastfeeding. These will alleviate the infection symptoms quickly while you are working on resolving the problems that

first caused the mastitis. It is really important to focus on the Breastfeeding latter, otherwise you are at risk of mastitis returning if prob- lems such as positioning have not been fixed.

The Breastfeeding Network’s information on Mastitis is also very helpful. Please see below.

Tongue Tie feel hot and painful to touch. If not treated rapidly, engorge- If you have received lots of help with positioning but are still ment can lead to mastitis which is congestion of the milk experiencing sore nipples then there may be something going ducts and inflammation of the breast. Fortunately, engorge- on in your baby’s mouth. A tight frenulum – the flap of skin ment is preventable. It is caused either by long intervals that secures the tongue to the base of the mouth – can restrict between feeds – especially overnight – or by positioning tongue movement and cause breastfeeding problems. If you problems. In either case milk is not adequately drained wish to explore this further ask your health professionals if from the breast. If you produce a lot of milk, even one hur- they have experience in diagnosing tongue-tie or seek help ried feed in which the baby has not been well positioned from a qualified breastfeeding counsellor, such as the NCT or an unusually long interval between feeds because your or La Leche League. There are some NHS hospital tongue- baby is sleeping, may lead to engorgement. To prevent your tie clinics in London. These require a referral from a GP and breasts from becoming engorged when you are apart from generally stipulate that mothers have received qualified breast- your baby express some milk as soon as you feel full. Ex- feeding help – to eliminate positioning problems first – before press just enough to make you feel comfortable as this will a referral can be initiated. otherwise stimulate the production of yet more milk.

Treating Engorgement To treat engorged breasts sit in a warm bath or under a show- Many mums come to er and express enough milk to make you feel comfortable again. Directing a hand-held gentle spray (no power showers the NCT breastfeeding please!) of hot water on the breasts brings relief. Once you are more comfortable, put the baby to breast and feed when she cafe because they are wakes. An engorged breast needs to be handled with great “ care. The swollen glands can easily be bruised so please be experiencing sore nipples careful with massaging and expressing.

What is mastitis? Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast caused by blocked milk ducts in. In the early stages mothers may notice a ” tender area and some lumpiness in one or both breasts. At Further inform tion: this stage it is possible to use warmth and massage in the @ affected area along with regular breastfeeding to help clear Further information and support please see Breast- the blockage. If the problem is left unresolved however the feeding Support information on page 22 body responds by going into infection-control mode. Some The NCT hosts a breastfeeding café every Monday mothers report a red patch, which is tender to the touch, from 10 – 12 noon at the Salvation Army coffee lounge appearing. Flu-like symptoms – headache, high tempera- in Balham ture, shivers and shakes – can then ensue. Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher & Kathleen Kendall-Tackett Treating Mastitis The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche The best way to treat mastitis is exactly the same as the League International best way to avoid it; namely, ensure that your baby is cor- rectly latched on and feeds regularly so that she can drain Breastfeeding by Sheila Kitzinger the breast well. Your baby’s chin can be very effective Positioning your baby in a relaxed, laid-back too; by adjusting their position and bringing your baby’s way:www.biologicalnurturing.com lower jaw onto the affected area for a feed. Breastfeeding www.realbabymilk.org regularly is key to helping this process. Some women also For further information about Mastitis and Thrush, just use a breast pump to help. Before the baby comes to the follow the link below to The Breastfeeding Network’s breast, and while feeding, massage the affected area with Home Page and scroll down to Information, BfN Leaf- circular and combing motions working towards the nip- lets: www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk ple area. Using a warm or cold flannel or compress on the Autumn 12 19 Coping with reflux Amy Tarr, mum to Elizabeth (15 months) shares her experience of managing her daughter’s reflux Breastfeeding

If I was told once, I was told a thousand times that being a mum will be both the best and hardest thing you will ever experience. Of course, everyone who told me this was right. The best feeling in the world is looking, for the first time, at the wonderful little person you have carried for nine months after the hard slog of labour. And the hardest thing? Without question, the most difficult thing for us as parents has been down. It made our feeding routine considerably more com- getting to grips with Elizabeth’s reflux. plicated as I had to express milk and add the Gaviscon to it but, for a few weeks, it helped. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the oesophagus, usually after feeding. Unfortunately, whether or not Elizabeth built up a tolerance Around half of all babies suffer from bouts of reflux during to the Gaviscon we aren’t sure, it wasn’t long before she the first three months of their lives and will often “spit up” was bringing up almost all of her milk again. It just required some milk during and after a feed. On the whole, this can considerably more effort on her part! be a messy affair – and the main reason why new parents sport the on-the-shoulder-muslin like it’s this season’s fash- By the time we went back to our GP to review the medica- ionable must-have – but it’s mostly just an inevitable part of tion, I had stopped breastfeeding altogether. Thankfully, those early days. However, for some babies, reflux can be I had expressed enough milk to feed a battalion of babies an altogether more unpleasant experience. so Elizabeth was able to have a daily breastmilk feed until she was nearly five months old, but I still experienced a Unfortunately for Elizabeth, she was in the latter camp. From real cocktail of emotions about stopping. On the one hand, around the third day at home, we had come to realise our 6lb I felt incredibly guilty that I would no longer be providing 13oz baby had a pair of lungs that belied her diminutive size. Elizabeth with her very own tailor-made diet. On the other, When it came to crying, she had the holler of a town crier and I felt enormous relief that the demoralising feeling I got every the stamina of an Olympic athlete. I used to dread putting her time she emptied a breast, only to vomit its contents back to my breast as within seconds she would be screaming and up, would finally be a thing of the past. within minutes she would vomit huge amounts of milk. This became the consistent pattern of our feeding experiences. At around four months old, Elizabeth was put on Domperi- done and Rantidine. Domperidone is an anti-sickness drug Things only got worse during the night. Like all new parents, that works by suppressing the nausea and vomiting and we were keen to follow the latest advice to the letter and so Ranitidine is an acid-suppressant, which decreases the Elizabeth was put to sleep on her back in her Moses basket. amount of acid the stomach produces. Within a few days of No sooner was she flat than the ear-piercing screaming would Elizabeth taking her new medication, we had a bonny baby begin. For six weeks, we battled on, assuming that Elizabeth for the first time. The difference in her feeding and general had colic or that she was feeding in the wrong position. I also mood was incredible plus her night time cough got a lot ate only bland food in case my diet had been affecting the better and she started sleeping for longer periods at a time. quality of my milk. Finally, after trying every trick in the book, we were told that she might have reflux. By this point we had also found other, non-medical, ways to reduce her symptoms. We learned that keeping her upright The main symptoms of reflux are vomiting during feeds – during and after feeding dramatically reduced the likelihood apart from babies with “silent reflux” – a persistent cough, of projectile vomiting. Winding her every five minutes also which is often worse during the night, general irritability, helped. We propped up her cot with blocks so that she slept arching the back, crying, particularly when feeding or lying on an incline and this made it harder for the acid to creep flat, poor feeding and poor growth due to the inability to hold back up her throat and cause her pain. Elizabeth also slept down food. Elizabeth presented with all of these symptoms on her side, flanked by rolled up towels on either side. She and at seven weeks was diagnosed with the condition. looked like the middle of a trio of cocoons – that usually emerged around 3am in the morning! Initially she was prescribed Gaviscon for infants which acts as a thickener that, when added to milk, helps it to stay

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 20 Facts about reflux • Reflux occurs when your child’s stomach contents (acid and food) flow back up into the throat or mouth because the muscular valve at the end of the oesophagus does not close properly. • During a baby’s first year, the muscular valve continues to gets stronger and the symptoms of reflux should start to decrease. • Babies with “silent reflux” suffer from almost all of the normal symptoms but do not regurgitate. It can

therefore be harder to identify the condition. Breastfeeding • Most infants who have reflux are otherwise healthy.

What to do if you think your child might have reflux Speak to your health visitor or GP if you notice any of the following: • your baby regularly vomits more than five times a day. • your baby cries excessively and/or arches their back during and after feeds. • your baby coughs a lot after feeds and during the night. Things finally started to settle down and, for a few months, • your baby is losing weight because they are we had the reflux under control. However, we had learned vomiting a lot or refusing food/drink. not to become complacent so when her symptoms returned, rather than panic, we discussed the options with her GP and Your doctor can usually diagnose the condition based on she was moved off Ranitidine and Domperidone and onto the presentation of the symptoms above; however there are Omeprazole to further inhibit her production of stomach acid. also a number of tests that can be undertaken including: • a pH probe which involves placing a thin tube Managing Elizabeth’s condition has involved much trial and into the oesophagus through the nose to measure error and has been an emotional rollercoaster. When she is levels of stomach acid. well and sleeping, we can all but forget that she has reflux; • upper GI endoscopy which uses a fine lit tube to she still vomits a lot but there is rarely any sign that she is in look directly inside the oesophagus. pain. But when it flares back up again it can be really hard • gastric emptying study in which a safe radioactive to deal to with. It is gut wrenching to see your child in pain chemical is ingested and then x-rayed or followed every time they eat and at the same time, it can make you through the gastrointestinal tract using a special want to scream with frustration when the fish pie you lov- camera. ingly prepared ends up all over you and the kitchen floor. I have felt exasperation, helplessness, self-pity – not to men- tion guilt that many parents have to deal with much more – but overall I am now far more pragmatic. The important thing to remember is that Elizabeth is a healthy and happy baby and, providing we are vigilant, her condition can be Further inform@tion: well managed until she grows out of it. Patient UK www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Childhood-Gastro- We were told that Elizabeth’s reflux would probably disap- Oesophageal-Reflux-Disease.htm pear once she was able to sit unaided as only around five NHS percent of babies still suffer from it by the age of 10 months. www.evidence.nhs.uk/search?q=baby%20reflux Unfortunately it is still going strong but we are hopeful that, by the time she is 18 months, we will have seen the back of Forum for parents of children with reflux it. If not, it’s not the end of the world; we know how to deal www.littlerefluxers.co.uk with it now and we will carry on as we are.

At 15 months old, Elizabeth has categorically proven that being a mum really is the best and the hardest thing I have ever experienced. But I have also learned that a mother’s capacity to forget the hardest things and a child’s ability I used to dread putting deliver the best experiences know no bounds. The list of amazing things that Elizabeth brings to our life continues her to my breast as within to grow and, whilst our carpets and upholstery look like seconds she would be Clapham High Street’s pavements at 3am on a Sunday “ morning, as long as our little girl’s stomach acid is kept screaming and within in check, we couldn’t be happier! minutes she would vomit huge amounts of milk

Autumn 12 ” 21 Breastfeeding resources Antenatal support Whatever your thoughts about feeding your baby it is worth spending Sharon George, NCT IBCLC. Joanna Knapp, NCT IBCLC some time pre-birth finding out more about breastfeeding to help [email protected], (trained in tongue tie). with your decision, as well as becoming familiar with the support 020 8265 9811 [email protected], that is available. Whilst many mothers intend to breastfeed, and Helen Gray, LLL IBCLC. 020 8891 3400 some find breastfeeding comes naturally, some experience problems [email protected], Kate Main, NCT IBCLC. which require expert and timely support to overcome. 07973 262659 [email protected], 020 8543 9772 Antenatal education: If possible, attend an antenatal class on breastfeeding. Hospitals offer free antenatal education and tours, including workshops on breastfeeding. Clapham NCT runs paid-for Breastfeeding welcome antenatal courses every month in venues across the branch area, Under the Equality Act (2010) mums cannot be discriminated Breastfeeding in both evening and weekend formats. All courses include a against, asked to leave a venue or treated unfavourably breastfeeding session, usually taught by a qualified NCT Breastfeeding because they are breastfeeding when out and about in England Counsellor, and a postnatal reunion. and Wales. Businesses, restaurants & cafes, public and leisure facilities in the area are generally very enlightened and welcoming Attend a breastfeeding drop-in: Most breastfeeding drop-ins of breastfeeding mothers. Do let us know if you encounter any welcome pregnant women. At the Clapham NCT’s weekly Balham problems. Breastfeeding Café, there are always two qualified breastfeeding counsellors on hand to provide information and support, alongside branch volunteers who provide friendship and refreshments. Breastfeeding drop-ins & clinics MONDAY Postnatal support 10-12noon Balham Breastfeeding Café drop-in Midwives and health visitors: In hospital, your primary breastfeed- Salvation Army Community Coffee Lounge, 38 Balham High Road, ing support will be the midwives responsible for your postnatal care. SW12 9AH. Run by Clapham NCT. Attended by two qualified NCT You will be encouraged to start breastfeeding your baby as soon as Breastfeeding Counsellors and branch volunteers. possible after birth. Upon leaving hospital, you and your baby will be 10-11.30am Stormont Health Centre drop-in discharged into the care of community midwives for the first five-ten 5-11 Antrim House, Stormont Road, SW11 5EG, 020 8812 5700. days, after which time your baby will be under the care of a health visitor. 1-4pm Stockwell Children’s Centre by appointment You may find that you need additional, ongoing or specialist Burgoyne Road, SW9 9QJ, 020 7166 6863. support from a breastfeeding counsellor. Do seek support 2-4pm The Milk Spot drop-in quickly and do not suffer in silence. Clapham Manor Children’s Centre, Belmont Row, SW4 6AT, 07950 719643 / 07985 126663. Breastfeeding drop-ins and clinics: Specialist breastfeeding sup- port and information, peer support and friendship can be found at TUESDAY local drop-ins and clinics: 10am-12noon, La Leche League Clapham Breastfeeding • Often free to attend and open to all, no matter what age or stage Mother and Baby Group drop-in. of breastfeeding For venue and dates: www.LLLclapham.blogspot.com. • Most operate on a weekly basis and in a community setting such 2-3.30pm Balham Health Centre drop-in as a health centre or children’s centre 120 Bedford Hill, SW12 9HS, 020 8812 6200. • Staffed either by trained breastfeeding counsellors, health prac- 2-3.30pm West Hill Children’s Centre drop-in titioners (midwives, health visitors, lactation consultants) peer sup- 4 Broomhill Road, SW18 4HX, 020 8870 9928. porters, and/or volunteers 2-4pm The Milk Spot drop-in • Details change, so do check the drop-in is open before you travel Weir Link Children’s Centre @ St Stephen’s Church, 35 Weir Road, • Do try to visit a few drop-ins as the style and nature of support is SW12 0NU, 07950 719643 / 07985 126663. different at each, and do visit them as many times as you need WEDNESDAY Doctors: You may need to see a doctor for specific medical 10-12pm Loughborough Children’s Centre drop-in conditions related to breastfeeding. Minet Road, SW9 7UA, 020 3409 6406. 1-3pm The Milk Spot drop-in Helplines and online support: Helplines are staffed by trained Tree House Children’s Centre, Holmewood Nursery, breastfeeding counsellors and they can offer support over the Upper Tulse Hill, SW2 2RW, 07791 404502 / 07976 919420 phone. Try to call from a landline as calls are directed to the 1-4pm Stockwell Children’s Centre by appointment geographically nearest available counsellor based on your home Burgoyne Road, SW9 9QJ, 020 7166 6863. telephone number. Breastfeeding information can be found on the 2-4pm The Milk Spot drop-in websites listed below. Woodmansterne Children’s Centre, Stockport Road, SW16 5XE, NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 330 0700 (8am-10pm) www.nct.org.uk 07950 719643 / 07985 126663 National Breastfeeding Helpline 0300 100 0212 THURSDAY (9.30am – 9.30pm) 10-12noon The Milk Spot drop-in Breastfeeding Network Supporter Line 0300 100 0210 Crown Lane Children’s Centre, Crown Lane School, (9.30am – 9.30pm) www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk SW16 3HX, 07791 404502 / 07976 919420 La Leche League 0845 120 2918 www.laleche.org.uk 11am-12.30pm Smallwood Children’s Centre drop-in Association of Breastfeeding Mothers 0844 412 2949 Smallwood Road, Garrett Lane, SW17 0TW, 020 8788 4379. www.abm.me.uk Clapham NCT volunteer breastfeeding counsellor FRIDAY Sharon George can also be reached on 020 8265 8911. 10am-12noon Franciscan Children’s Centre drop-in Franciscan Road, SW17 8HQ, 020 8672 3048. Breastpump agents: For hire of hospital grade pumps 12-2pm The Milk Spot drop-in SW2: Isabel 020 8674 8761, SW18: Samantha 020 8877 3611. Hitherfield Children’s Centre, Hitherfield Road, SW16 2JQ, 07950 Or direct from the manufacturers Ameda or Medela. 719643 / 07985 126663 Private help: Can be obtained from an International Board 1-4pm Stockwell Children’s Centre by appointment Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Use the search on Burgoyne Road, SW9 9QJ, 020 7166 6863. www.lcgb.org to find a local practitioner. www.nct.org.uk/clapham 22 Nobody said it was going to be easy

Amy Tarr asks local mums and dads what has been the Voxpops greatest challenge of their lives as parent so far Emily, Olly and Josh (6 and 3 years) For me, it was learning to accept that there were now a lot of situa- “tions that were out of my control. Listening to my instincts and know- ing how to be adaptable were invaluable lessons. First time around, I learned that “going with the flow” and “doing what comes naturally” made everything a lot easier. I gave the routines a go but in the end found that I was much happier making our own routine, as it made me less tense. Second time around, I was just happy to make it to the end of the day unscathed! ” Clare and Eva (5 months) The biggest challenge for me was adapting to the change of pace and “focus; going from a full-time, office-based, professional job to being at Emily, Olly & Josh home with a baby is a bit of a mental shift. To start with, it was strange Clare & Eva feeling that I wasn’t getting anything “done” but at the same time having no spare time but I soon relaxed into it and accepted that organising mul- tiple feeds, nappy changes, naps and cuddles – interspersed with a few lunches and coffees for me – was enough of an achievement! ” Debbie, Max and Isla (6 and 3 years) Blimey, the pressure to breastfeed is unbelievable! I remember being “manhandled hour after hour for three days in hospital trying to get my new- born to breastfeed. I was in tears. Everyone knows that breast is best, but sometimes it just doesn’t work and it is important that, as mums, we know that this doesn’t mean we’ve failed. I think encouragement to breastfeed is absolutely critical but it is equally important that, where it doesn’t go to plan, you don’t beat yourself up about it for months on end.” Susie and Sophie (2 years) When I had Sophie the biggest challenge was the mental adjustment Max & Isla “to how life had changed. We went from being a young couple who ate Susie & Sophie out, spent weekends in the pub, and went on interesting holidays to par- ents who talked about nothing but the baby, when we were able to string a sentence together at all. For me that was the baby blues; a period of mourning for my old life and my relationship with my husband. But it passed quickly and of course now I can’t imagine life without her, and seeing her bond with her Daddy is one of the best bits. ” Amy and Elizabeth (15 months) In the very early days, the biggest challenge for me was lack of sleep. “Having averaged a solid 10 hours pre-baby, I was incredulous that I now regularly had to function on two hours sleep a night. It’s surprising how quickly you get used to it though and, even on the days when I found the milk in the nappy drawer and the nappies in the fridge, a winning smile from Elizabeth – albeit wind-induced – would be enough to make me feel less like the walking dead and delighted to be a mummy! ” Amy & Elizabeth Jessica & Joe Clare, Jessica and Joe (6 and 2½ years) Adjusting to concept of being wholly responsible for this new little per- son“ was a major challenge. It seemed incredible to me that the hospital let us leave without a full credentials check! As we looked at our tiny first born in the car seat, we felt quite overwhelmed by the sheer enormity of what we were faced with. The thing to remember is that almost everyone feels the same and our littl’uns are surprisingly patient with us, not to mention robust. Yes, they cry and refuse to sleep when you want them to, but it is all part of the learning process so just keep calm and carry on! ”

If you’d like to share your experiences with other readers, please email [email protected] Autumn 12 23 Dealing with depression Student Postnatal Leader

Early Days Alex Bollen looks at postnatal depression

What is postnatal depression? Having a baby is an emotional rollercoaster. There is little – if any – time to recover from the physical and emotional challenges of birth and pregnancy before being plunged into a twenty four hours a day, seven days a week whirl of feeding, crying and nappy changing. It is completely normal to feel drained, overwhelmed, con- fused and vulnerable in the early days and weeks of moth- erhood. Indeed some researchers argue that most women who have babies have some sort of depression. However some women find that their experiences are particularly dif- ficult and prolonged. What causes depression? We don’t know for sure what causes postnatal depres- sion, although it seems likely that a number of things may In the words of depressed mothers… contribute. Hormones may possibly play a role, while social “Even the smallest task just felt monumental” and emotional factors have been shown to be important. “The fogginess would set in” The following circumstances have been linked with a higher “Everything was black” risk of depression: • Stressful recent life events It is estimated that around one in ten mothers become clini- • Lack of social support cally depressed. Postnatal depression usually develops in • Previous experience of depression the first four to six weeks after childbirth, although in some • Negative pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding experiences cases it may not develop for several months. Symptoms can include some or all of the following: Preventing depression Research has consistently found that social support can • A persistent feeling of sadness and low mood help guard against depression. One recent study found that • A loss of interest in the things you used to enjoy the support of partners and mothers made a real difference • Lack of energy and feeling tired all the time to how confident new mothers felt. • Feeling like you can’t cope or are a failure • Strong feelings of anxiety or guilt Other new mothers can be a great source of support. Part • Loss of appetite of the NCT’s purpose is helping new parents meet each • Difficulty sleeping other, whether through our antenatal and postnatal Early • Finding it hard to make decisions Days courses, postnatal teas, playgroups and events. You can find out more about what we offer parents locally Dads and depression through the NCT website (www.nct.org.uk/branches/clap- Fathers can also suffer from depression – around one in ham) or by following us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ ten dads develop depression in the year after their child pages/Clapham-NCT/109655562429449). is born. Symptoms are similar to postnatal depression. If you are depressed or know a dad who may have de- Related to this, research shows that new mothers feel the pression, it’s important to get some help and support. need to talk through their experiences. Indeed the risk of depression increases in women who do not have someone Postnatal depression is different from puerperal psy- to talk to openly. However new mothers can find it hard to chosis, a serious mental illness often needing psychiat- admit to finding things difficult. One of the key benefits of ric treatment and possibly a hospital stay. This condi- an NCT Early Days course is that it provides a safe envi- tion is rare, affecting only one or two mothers in every ronment for mothers to share their experiences, providing 1,000, and most commonly occurs in the first month reassurance that their feelings are normal. after having a baby. There are other ways to increase your emotional wellbeing The main symptoms of puerperal psychosis are delu- in the postnatal period, for instance getting as much rest sions, hallucinations, confused thoughts and a lack as you can and eating properly. Gentle exercise, such as of self-awareness. In very severe cases, the mother a walk in the park, can be beneficial. Trying not to do too may try to harm her baby or herself. If you are, or much and being realistic about how much you can achieve know someone who may be, suffering from puerperal at the same time as looking after your baby can also help. psychosis, you should get medical help from your GP, We can put enormous pressure upon ourselves to be per- midwife or health visitor as a matter of urgency. fect, but it is much better for you and your baby to aim to be a happy mum rather than a “supermum.” www.nct.org.uk/clapham 24 It is completely normal to feel drained, overwhelmed, “confused and vulnerable in the early days and weeks of motherhood ” Early Days Support for depression The Cedar House Support Group is a registered charity which supports mums suffering from postnatal depres- sion. This support group is hoping to come to Clapham in the near future. The weekly groups are run by Liz Wise, a professionally trained counsellor, who herself suffered from the illness after the birth of both her children. Liz is also the PND coordinator for the NCT at national level and has over 15 years’ experience working in this field.

Liz Wise, says, “postnatal depression is a terrifying In her book Postnatal depression: facing the paradox of loss, illness and mums can sometimes suffer in silence. Our happiness and motherhood Paula Nicolson advises, “the best groups offer a supportive and confidential space for survival strategy is to ensure that the low moods, distress and mums to gain the help they so desperately need. We intermittent depression do not last too long. If they join up, also have a creche for babies and toddlers run by our severe clinical depression might set in and that is more difficult fabulous volunteers who are all CRB checked. I’ve had to shift. A major factor in avoiding prolonged depression is to the privilege to help some seriously ill women over the find a way, however small, of taking control of your life.” last 20 years and people do recover. Our groups really aid recovery at a time when mums can be feeling fright- How you take back some control of your life will be very ened, isolated and suffering from horrendous intrusive personal to you. It may involve having a haircut, relaxing in thoughts. We’ve found there’s a real gap in services the bath, reading a magazine or watching a film. in South West London and want to put plans in place very soon to help women in this area. In the meantime, Dealing with depression please do contact us if we can be any help.” If you are concerned you may have postnatal depression, it is important that you do not suffer alone. Postnatal depres- sion can affect anyone and you are not to blame. Speak There are also a number of things to try which may help: to your family and friends to get their support. Talk to your health visitor or GP to see what help is on offer. Treatments • Look after yourself – eat well, rest as much as you can, for postnatal depression generally include: do things just for you • Take one day at a time and do only what you feel able • “Talking” therapies such as cognitive behavioural to do therapy or interpersonal therapy either one-to-one with • Take some gentle exercise, such as a walk a counsellor or with a group • Accept that there will still be bad days, even when you • “Self-help” therapies such as guided self-help or com- are on the way to recovering puterised cognitive behavioural therapy which can be • Talk things through with people you trust provided by your GP • Anti-depressants As one depressed mum said about her road to recovery: “I began to realise that this is about taking care of me. Unfortunately one of the downsides of living in an area with But it was also about reaching out and asking for help.” such a high birth rate is that postnatal health services can be stretched and you may not get the help you need the first time you ask. Don’t give up and remember that there are other sources of support. See below for details. Further inform@tion: Cedar House Support Group www.postnataldepression.com/cedar-house- support-group Liz Wise, Postnatal Depression Counsellor, Cedar House Support Group, can be contacted at: [email protected], 07773 283556. All calls are confidential The Association for Postnatal Illness www.apni.org. They run a free helpline (0207 386 0868 Monday- Friday 10am-2pm)

Autumn 12 25 When a child is born Alessandra Foderero, mum to Iolanda (1) explores some of the many ways to commemorate the arrival of a new baby Early Days

Celebrating the birth of a baby, the represents our joy at her arrival. Plant- beginning of a new life, is a natural ing a tree to commemorate a birth is thing to do for any family and vary- connected with the ancient tradition ing ways of doing this can be found of burying the placenta, which is com- in every culture. But there is also the mon in many cultures from Kenyan Even if everybody has a camera these need in many of us to keep some- Kukuio to Maori. days, a more formal family photo thing that will bring back memories shoot is still something special. Em- of the early days of a baby’s life. I There are of course many other ways manuel, father of one-year-old Sean, spent most of my time in the first few of celebrating your baby’s birth. tells the story of their photo shoot: months at home with my daughter just There are a large number of compa- “Sean was six months old, and we looking at and taking pictures of her, nies these days that take a blatantly only had a few pictures of the three of with the intention of never forgetting commercial approach to gifts and us. So we found a photographer with those wonderful moments when she keepsakes, but it is up to each family a mobile studio. He came to our place had only just arrived in the world. to find something to suit their lifestyle. and we had one good hour of photo Some ideas that are common else- shoot. Sean was relaxed in his familiar When I was born my grandparents where may seem unusual to us. For environment and enjoyed the new planted a linden tree on the land next instance, a Japanese specialty gifts game. The photos are beautiful and a to their farm in northern Italy. I can’t company suggests you share your joy great present for all the family.” remember being as tall as my tree, but by giving family and friends person- I remember that, as a little girl, I was alised bags of rice which feature your A very original way of celebrating the very impressed to have something new baby’s face, and exactly match special day of the birth of your child dedicated to me. My tree was next his or her weight. with pictures is the one proposed by a to the one planted at the birth of my company called The Day That (http:// grandmother. Both trees are still there With the advent of digital photogra- www.thedaythat.co.uk/). Every morn- and when I look at them, I think of my phy, family portraiture has become ing for the last seven years, they have grandparents and of their love for me. very popular. But some prefer some- taken pictures of amazing sunrises in thing more individual. Artist Natasha England. The images, crafted into a A few months after the birth of our Gomperts draws for families in a beautiful work of art, mounted, framed daughter, we thought of planting a variety of ways. Her work is strong, and hand-inscribed, can be treasured tree for her too. We didn’t have any lively and relatively affordable. She is as a permanent reminder of a very farmland, but the gardener told us unusual in drawing young babies from special day. that an apple tree could grow in the life. She comes to the baby’s house front garden. This is Iolanda’s tree and sketches. Baby can be awake, There are also many creative things which will grow with her and which feeding or asleep in any comfortable you can do with digital photos. For situation. It is a fun way to pass a day example, Danielle, mother of Callan, and there can be enough drawings to who is now three, took a picture of her keep the ones you like best and have son on the same day of every month others for special gifts. for two years and then made a collage of the 24 pictures and hung it in a Jen, mum to eight month old Esme, prominent position in her living room. says that the day she spent with Nata- At a glance, she could see how he sha drawing her daughter was enjoy- had changed during the first two years able and relaxing. “Natasha managed of his life, from a little baby who could to be both good fun and unobtrusive. barely open his eyes, to a mischie- We just got on with our usual routine vous toddler. of feeding, sleeping, cuddling and nappy changes and she sat with us Another good idea is a special item of and drew whenever she saw a good jewellery which can be personalised opportunity. We ended up with some with your baby’s fingerprint or name. really lovely drawings which are very A quick search on the internet will different to anything else I’ve seen and reveal that there are many companies capture Esme as the wriggling smiling which can supply these items in the baby she was at that point in her life.” form of a key ring, pendant, cufflinks

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 26 Early Days

or rings. Sammy Duder, who creates Brian, 18 months, tells of her experi- If you do not like the idea of a public personalised pottery and jewellery, is ences: “We went to a pottery café with blog, you can always create a diary, often at NCT Cheeky Monkey Parties the NCT group when the babies were either on your computer or in a hard and will be able to suggest a design six months old, and we had a lot of copy format, which serves the same for your special jewellery. Giovanna, fun decorating the ceramics, and the purpose. My friend Ruth, who organ- mum of Filippo, 20 months, speaks staff was very helpful and enthusiastic ised my baby shower, created a little enthusiastically about her fingerprint about getting the best images. I have guest book in which my friends and jewellery. She was inspired by the to admit it was a bit difficult to sign relatives left messages for Iolanda on anecdote of a rich Roman widow, his name on the mug while trying to the occasion of her birth. I have kept Cornelia Gracchi, who, on being entertain him with his toys, though!” this safe and will give it to her on her asked why she wore so little jewel- A similar idea is to make a cast of your 18th birthday. lery, replied “haec ornamenta mea” baby’s feet or hands and there are (these are my jewels), indicating her many kits available for both 3D and I hope I’ve given you some ideas two sons. Giovanna thinks about flat casts, which can also be framed. about how to celebrate your new her son in the same way, but, as a arrival, but as every family is unique, working mother, she cannot always A totally different approach was no doubt each one will celebrate a be with him, so the pendant is a way taken by Lily’s mum and dad. They birth in its own unique and special way. of always having something with her wanted to leave something so that to connect with him. She adds that it their daughter could follow what had SPECIAL OFFERS! is also a good talking point, because happened in the first year of her life Natasha Gomperts is currently when people ask about the unusual when she was older, so they decided offering NCT members a special jewellery it gives her the opportunity on a blog. Each month they described rate of £150 for two drawings or to talk about her son. what had happened to her, with £220 for all drawings made over pictures and videos. In this way, she a day (up to eight). Mary, mum of Lucy, five years old, will be able to relive the experiences has been wearing her pendant since of her first year later on in her life and, The Day That has a special offer Lucy was three months old, and she is of course, the blog served as a means for NCT members buying a framed always surprised when she compares of letting family and friends know how print who will get another unframed the size of her daughter’s hand with she was developing. print free of charge. the tiny print of it on the pendant. She says that it really gives her an amazing feeling when she realises how quickly time has passed.

Staying with the theme of footprints, A Japanese speciality it is also possible to immortalise your baby’s tiny hands and feet on gifts company suggests giving a unique piece of ceramic. Mugs, family and friends personalised plates, teapots, jugs and tiles can all “ be a canvas for colourful prints and bags of rice they make excellent presents for your family and friends. Stephanie, mum of ” Autumn 12 27 Keeping the spark alive Jo Jones, mum to Violet (3) and Ivy (7 months) on overcoming the

Parenthood challenges her beloved children pose to her relationship with her husband

A friend of mine came to visit a few weeks ago and over a second (or third) glass of wine asked my husband if he thought I loved our kids more than I loved him. She’s the unapologetically intrusive type. And she doesn’t have kids yet, obviously. I was fully expecting Dan – the husband – to spout some platitude or other and tell her to stop being a cliché but to my surprise he didn’t. “Of course she does” Competitive tiredness he said blithely, “and so do I.” “Does he?” I immediately As hard as it is, try not to get drawn into conversations about thought to myself? “Do I?” His response caught me off whose the most tired; it’s too exhausting and it can never guard and spooked me. Surely if this is true – which I sus- end well. The fact is, having kids is knackering so get used to pected it might be – does that mean I’m failing as a wife? it and deal with it the best you can. I drink a lot of coffee and Am I so busy caring for and loving my two children that the sing show tunes in my head when the husband talks about needs of my husband, let alone myself – sorry, who? – have how tired he is when I’ve been up all night feeding. Be safe been completely de-prioritised? Put on the back burner, left in the knowledge that this stage will pass and soon enough to stew and go off because I haven’t the time or the energy you’ll be dragging them out of bed at noon on weekends so to put into my marriage at the end of a long day? I respond- they “don’t waste the day.” ed in the only way I could. I kept my mouth shut, storing the big question up to agonise over later in the comfort of my Be kind own head. Being physically and emotionally exhausted – as well as dealing with the everyday demands of bringing up children When we first met, the husband pursued me in quite the old – can leave you ratty and uncharitable. Choose your battles fashioned way. He gave me thoughtful presents and sent is my advice and try to be kind to each other. The older I get love notes – over email obviously, it was only seven years the more I appreciate a simple act of kindness; it can really ago – as he’d decided fairly early on that we were going to turn a hard day into a better one. end up together. Whether I liked it or not. And the day we got married I couldn’t have been happier if I’d have married Play tag anyone else. Even Jonny Wilkinson. But today and two kids While family time is good you don’t have to do everything later the emails and texts we send each other tend to be together. The husband and I take turns in getting up at week- transactional; “I’ll pay this”, “please can you pick up that on ends so the other one can have a lie-in. And we often take the way home”, blah blah. Or, more likely, kid-focused; “you one kid each on Saturdays and split up to do different things won’t believe what Violet said today” “Ivy rolled onto her before coming together later on in the afternoon. It’s great tummy this morning”. These things I mulled over when I had to have some one-to-one with your child and gives you all time to revisit the big question. something to talk about later.

Before we had children I swore to myself that our relationship United front wouldn’t suffer when we did; that I would always – no mat- You have no real idea what type of parent you’re going to ter what – make an effort. But the reality of being a full time be until it happens. I always thought I was kind of strict and working professional and mother means I struggle to find the unforgiving but it turns out I’m a pretty relaxed – read weak energy and motivation to put into being a wife and a mother. – parent who adopts a “good cop” approach to bringing up The reality of “having it all” – or seemingly so – and present- my kids. Whilst this laissez-faire attitude drives the husband ing a happy, contented family unit to the outside world can – aka bad cop – insane we try super-hard not to disagree be exhausting. Whether you like it or not children do change in front of the kids. This is a recipe for disaster as they can a marriage; in some ways for the good and in some for the smell blood a mile off. Instead we wait until they’ve gone to not-so-good. Along the way I’ve learnt a few little lessons – bed before we have an almighty row about me giving the mostly the hard way – that I hope help keep our relationship oldest Coco Pops before bed. on track; help it to continue evolving rather than standing still, neglected and unprotected. By all means rubbish my See the funny side tactics or discount them altogether but if you have any better I am not a smug married. We struggle all the time as every ideas please get in touch and share them; I need all the help day seems to throw up new challenges. Chicken Pox any- I can get. one? How about a nice vomiting virus? Or head lice? Teeth-

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 28 Parenthood

ing at three in the morning? Will the night terrors do you? But about anything but the kids. Just for a few hours to remem- we also try and laugh at any situation we find ourselves in. ber why we like each other and to reconnect. If we can’t go It’s either that or cry and laughing – even forced hilarity – can out for whatever reason – no sitter, no money to burn – I get help take the edge off. And, as I mentioned earlier, nothing us a decent bottle of wine and a takeaway and we make the lasts forever. When I feel like I can’t take any more I repeat most of that. the proverb “this too shall pass” to remind myself that what- ever is happening is temporary and will one day fade away. Heaven knows if we’ve gotten anything right but my girls ap- pear well adjusted and happy and that’s all I care about. Oh Lose the guilt and Dan too of course! And I’ve realised that the answer to Parents – particularly working mothers – tend to be con- the big question is yes, I do love my kids more than I love my sumed by guilt. Not spending enough time with the kids and husband. In fact I love them more than it is possible to love losing your patience with them when you do, not being able anything, ever. The all consuming, unconditional love a par- to make a certain event because of work commitments. Lit- ent feels for their child cannot – in my mind anyway, and my erally anything brings out this all-consuming feeling of inad- husband’s too it turns out – be compared to anything else. equacy. In fact, according to a recent study, 88% of women And neither I, nor my husband, would have it any other way. – the third highest in Europe – say they have got their work/ life balance wrong. This statistic doesn’t surprise me. I have to work but I also love my work and my career is important to me. I also think it’s important my girls grow up knowing what possibilities lie ahead of them as women if they work hard and show commitment and passion for what they do. So I try and lose the guilt by spending quality time with them I drink a lot of coffee whenever I get the chance. And when I am with them I give them 100% of my concentration rather than checking my and sing show tunes in my Blackberry for emails every five minutes. head when the husband Spoil yourselves when you can “ The fact is you can’t go out as much as you used to. And if talks about how tired he is you do manage to secure a babysitter and get a rare night out you’ll be so out of the habit of spending one-to-one when I’ve been up all night time together that it’s likely you’ll find yourself struggling for conversation. Conversation that doesn’t involve, or revolve feeding around, your kids that is. You’ll also be tired so may not pull an all-nighter like the old days. And then there’s the morning after. A babysitter is all well and good but they won’t be there in the morning when all you want to do is sleep off the night ” out. Remember the old days when you would lie around all day post night out watching DVD box sets before leisurely heading to the pub for a Sunday roast and to read the papers? But it is what it is. Once I’d accepted that life had changed post-kids I made sure that when Dan and I do get a late pass we make the most of it and do something nice and spoil ourselves a bit if we can stretch to it: a good restaurant, the best seats in the cinema, whatever. And that we talk

Autumn 12 29 Wave goodbye to those nappies Kathryn Mewes, author of The 3 day nanny shares her tips for

Parenthood successful potty training There is so much pressure upon parents to potty train their children yet there is something that we tend to forget; your child is the decision maker for this milestone and not you. There are signs you should look out for before you even contemplate removing those nappies.

Look for signs of readiness • My child’s nappy is often dry when I change him after about two hours • My child informs me when he has done a wee or a poo in his nappy Pick your moment • My child is showing signs of discomfort with wearing Choose a moment in the morning after breakfast when you his nappy are dressing your child and say something like, “now, I think • My child wants their nappy changed as soon as they we are ready to do something really fun. We are going to have soiled it play some games around the house this morning and play • My child will remove their own nappy at any given in the garden. I think we could just wear our fun long t-shirts opportunity and leave our nappies off. That would be fun. Shall we do • My child is happy to talk about potty training and read that?” Embrace the moment but be aware that if your child the books instantly says “no” then you must leave them in their nappy. • My child has a clear understanding of what potty training involves Ready to go • My child happily watches both parents using the loo The important factor here is that your child is bare from the • My child announces doing a wee or poo in advance waist down. The reason for this is that you want them to • My child is not at the stage of continually saying “no” recognise and feel when they are urinating or pooing. Until now, it has always been caught in a warm nappy. When action Do the groundwork strikes it is likely to be on the floor. This is great progress. They It is key that your child has seen you use the loo and that have identified the action. So your reaction should be some- you have explained what you are doing so that they know thing like, “well done, a wee! Now next time let’s try and the process. It is also a good idea to talk about potty train- get it in the potty so that we can give the potty a sticker.” ing using books of pictures from the internet. Have several Remain relaxed and see every episode as a positive move. pairs of leggings or skirts for girls and sports trousers for It is really important that you do not ask your child if they boys ready which are easy to pull up and down. When need the potty / loo throughout the day as this may cause you are in the house, you may find it easier to let chil- them to become tense. dren wear fun long t-shirts with a bare bottom. Ideally, aim for a week of good weather and keep your diary clear Important Points to Remember for five consecutive days. Have potties ready to place both • This is a stage in your child’s development about which downstairs and upstairs and buy some stickers to decorate you must remain very positive, whatever happens. So do the potty each time it is used • Keep calm and smile a lot! • Allow your child to visit the bathroom with you when you need to use the loo • Give your child plenty of fluids using sports bottles, drinking straws and fun cups • Let your child be naked from the waist down when you are at home together • Have your child wear elasticated-waisted shorts and trousers when out • Make your child aware of where the potties are placed in the house • Give physical praise: kiss, hug, spin around swing • Use a visual praise aid such as placing stickers on the potty for each success • Keep all nappies out of sight • Take note of regular bowel movements (often a short time after a meal) • Both use the loo / potty before leaving the house and make this a consistent routine • Take the potty and two spare outfits on all outings • Truly believe your child can achieve this milestone • Be ready to stop this process if your child is clearly not ready www.nct.org.uk/clapham 30 Remain relaxed and see every episode as a positive “move. This is a learning curve that they need to achieve in their own time Parenthood

Do not ” • Show frustration because you want to start potty training but your child is not ready • Force the issue • Inform your child that “everyone else we know wears pants” • Keep reminding them that they are a big boy and My son will wee in the potty or loo but he will only should be wearing pants poo in his night nappy. How do I stop this? • Continually ask your child whether she needs a wee This is very common. My advice is that the night • Show disappointment when an accident occurs. This nappy does not go on until after story time just be- is part of the learning process. fore lights out. Most importantly do not make a big • Grimace when emptying the potty or use words such issue out of this. Pull down the soiled nappy in the as “disgusting” bathroom and sit him on the potty while you dis- • Over Praise. This can unsettle and embarrass a child pose of it. Ask him to bend as you clean him. Do not • Disbelieve that they are capable of potty training lay him down and change his nappy. This makes • Continue with the process if your child is showing signs the process all too easy for him. Once he is all clean of not being emotionally ready ie continual accidents simply say “Let’s try and poo in our potty next time!” with no clear understanding of what is occurring The next big step is that you aim for him to be dry through the night so that you can remove the nappies all together (see below). Once the nappies are totally gone Frequently Asked Questions you will find that your son will aim to use the potty. My child never goes to the loo when I ask her to before leaving the house but as soon as we are out When should we stop using night nappies? she wants a wee. This is something you can monitor before you consider I would make visiting the loo part of your routine before doing. There is no rush. Most children are dry through leaving the house. I suggest that you go to the loo and the night by the time they are four and a half years let your daughter know that it is a family rule. Every- old. This involves no fluid after dinner time, a final wee one visits the loo before leaving the house: “Loo, then before bed, guiding him to the loo before you go to bed shoes and off we go!” If you are able to, lower her onto at 10.30 or 11pm and taking him to the loo as soon as the potty from behind and simply say, “I am going to go he wakes in the morning. Once you have three con- and get your shoes I will see you in a minute.” Do not secutive mornings with a dry nappy you can consider hesitate and confidently walk off. Do not return until she removing them all together. calls out to you. If she still has not used the potty and says she does not want to stand her up and say “OK, My daughter will start to wee in her knickers and no wee. Maybe next time when we leave the house.” finish on the potty. Should I tell her off for not get- The key is to remain consistent and make it routine. ting to the loo in time? Do not make a big deal out of this. If you are able to My son seems to be visiting the potty all of the time start the day without knickers and just have her wear- but only doing a very small wee. Is there a cause for ing a pretty skirt this would be perfect. Say to her that me to be concerned? she will wear knickers when you go out but while you When starting potty training some children will visit the are at home it is “bare bottom time” because it makes potty more than they need to due to the novelty factor. In going to the potty easier. You will find that she will not time they will be able to hold a larger amount of fluid in want to wee down her legs and will get to the potty in their bladder and will wait longer. Do not draw attention time. Once you have had three consecutive days of to this. If you are concerned that he may have a urine in- getting to the potty in time you may consider introduc- fection I suggest you visit your doctor for further advice. ing knickers again.

My daughter is only opening her bowels every three days. Should I worry? When children start to take control of their bowel and Member Event bladder they can sometimes hold onto their stools for Kathryn will be talking about encouraging inde- longer that they need to. I strongly advise that you do pendence, handling tantrums and potty training at not draw attention to this. Many children start potty an exclusive event for NCT members on 1 October training holding onto stools. As time progresses she will at 8pm at Under the Greenwood Tree, Clapham. become more regular. Ensure that she is getting plenty Tickets are £5 including light refreshments. Discount of fluid throughout the day to prevent constipation and of 10% on all purchases on the night. For more if you are concerned I suggest talking to your doctor details contact [email protected] but do not converse about this in front of your child because they will then see it as a “problem” and this can complicate matters. Autumn 12 31 NCT Magazine Clapham & District Branch Advertising rates and artwork specifications Deadline date for next issue: 7 October 2012

‘Special Delivery’ is a quarterly magazine delivered to around 1,000 member households in March, June, September and December. Our readership is made up of parents and parents-to-be living in and around the Clapham area, with the majority of our members located in SW4, SW11 and SW12, as well as smaller numbers in SW2, SW8, SW9, SW16, SW18 and SW19. The magazine is a valuable source of information for our members, not only for the support and informative articles, but also as a handy reference guide to local activities, events and service providers. It is without doubt a highly targeted and lucrative audience and our advertising opportunities offer local businesses valuable access to this audience. Advertising Size Rates for Rates for annual single issue bookings Special advertisements & sponsorship (20% discount) For advertisers who would like extra exposure we can offer 1/4 page £70 + VAT= £224 + VAT= a range of special advertisements including belly bands, £84.00 £268.80 colour pull-outs, and bookmarks. If you have an idea, why not call us and we’ll see if we can do it for you. 1/2 page £105 + VAT= £336 + VAT= £126.00 £403.20 For those businesses that would like a really high profile among local parents, sponsorship of the magazine is avail- Full page £160 + VAT= £512 + VAT able. Please contact the advertising manager to discuss (inside) £192.00 £614.40 how we can work together.

Full page £200 + VAT= £640 + VAT = (covers) £240.00 £768.00 Website advertising Pre-printed inserts can be put into each copy of the magazine for £160 + VAT per quarter We also offer advertisers the opportunity to appear within our local directory on the Clapham & District NCT website. Each directory listing includes: business name, address, telephone number, email, contact name, web address and a 25 word description of products and services. Invoicing Magazine Non-magazine You will be sent your invoice together with a copy of the Advertisers* Advertisers magazine on publication. Please send your remittance within 31 days of receiving the invoice. Quarterly Rate £10 + VAT £25 + VAT Annual Rate £40 + VAT £70 + VAT Advertising Manager *Preferential rates will be offered to our existing magazine advertis- [email protected] ers to recognise and acknowledge their valuable support. Newsletter Each issue of Special Delivery is a result of hard work by a team advertisers can purchase a directory listing at an additional cost of of committed volunteers working in their spare time. Clapham and £10+VAT per quarter over and above their usual newsletter advertising District NCT Branch is non-profit making. Advertising revenue rates, provided the web advertising is booked at the same time as the pays for the printing and paper used to produce the magazine. newsletter advertising.

• All artwork must be supplied to the dimensions shown left. Artwork Requirements Please note all quarter page adverts are portrait. It is very important that you follow the artwork requirements - your advertisement will only be as • All adverts should be supplied as CMYK jpeg or tiff good as your artwork. files (minimum 300 dpi), PDFs, InDesign documents or good quality hard copies suitable for scanning. Cover Full Page Ads Bleed size: • InDesign documents should be supplied with full fonts and 216(W) x 303(H) any jpegs or artwork required for printing. Half Page Advert Trim size: • We do not offer a full design service, although simple 180(W) x 126(H) mm 210(W) x 297(H) artwork can be set, please contact Claire Speight to discuss Inside Full Page Ads Please note - unfortunately Microsoft Office Word files 180(w) x257(H) are not acceptable. Quarter Page Advert Design & Production Editor 82.5(W) x 126(H) mm Claire Speight Email: claire@clairesp8design

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Advertising Together

What Montessori can offer your family

Montessori provides parents with practical ways to enjoy and contribute to their‘‘ child’s development.” ‘‘Family and Parenting Institute “Effective parenting makes a proven difference to family life and unlocks a child’s potential. Parenting UK A handy new guide for parents everywhere ½ Ideal for parents from birth upwards ½ Packed with advice on bringing out the Available best in children now for just * £6.99 ½ Takes a fresh look plus p&p at family life MONTESSORI TO ORDER THE BOOK *Discounts available on Telephone: 07889 032 322 bulk orders or email: [email protected]

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 44 Music classes for babies and young children! Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games Advertising ® Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. For your FREE Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months introductory session Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds tel: 020 8699 0977 Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends! www.monkeymusic.co.uk

drop in music sessions for babies & toddlers

www.fruitytunes.net 07970 488 437 [email protected]

Autumn 12 45 Louise Rose Photography Bumps, babies and children A Clapham-based photographer and mum, I take photographs in your own home or favourite park. Sessions cost £100, including a DVD of high-resolution re-touched images, password-protected slideshow and the option to order prints at cost price. Advertising

www.louiserosephotography.com [email protected] 07949 764 022

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 46 SafeandSound Ad 82.5x126:Layout 4 13/7/09 16:44 Page

The supplier of scheduled first aid Safe&Sound courses for Clapham NCT CHILD SAFETY AND FIRST AID First

• Qualified Nurse and Advertising First Aid Trainer • Classes in your home or Aid scheduled in SW12 or SW1 for infants and children • Excellent Paediatric First Aid ● Manuals to take away Regular scheduled courses or private in your own home • Paediatric courses fulfil ● Medically qualified professional trainers Ofsted criteria ● Language support for au pairs

www.firstaidforlife.org.uk www.safeandsound.uk.net e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 020 8675 4036 HSE Approved 020 8445 8998

Autumn 12 47 Exquisite homewares and gifts Advertising

Special Offer! 10% discount on all orders received before 31 st Oct 2012 www.morganjonesoflondon.com when you use the code: CNCT10 Morgan-Jones of London M_JofLondon at the checkout.

Musical Express is a musical Experience and Education for under 5s Percussion instruments • Musical stories Puppets • Action songs and rhymes Lots and lots of fun ! • Sessions are held at: Southfields Methodist Church, SW19 8EE Mon, Tue, Wed & Thur NomiNated for a Wimbledon Rugby Club, SW20 0ET Mondays Earlsfield Baptist Church, SW18 3NZ Tuesdays Eddie Catz Wimbledon, SW19 2LP Wednesdays

2012 award Gooseberry Bush Cafe, SW19 1LT Thursdays Come along for a trial class! Call Ali Palmer on 07808 587606 or email: [email protected] www.musicalexpress.co.uk

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 48 Baby A-Wake

Exercise & wellbeing for Mums & Mums to be

Small group classes and programmes including antenatal Pilates and ‘Body Back’ after baby. Led by Jane Wake, the country’s leading expert on pre and postnatal exercise, as seen in Red and Grazia magazines. Advertising

Call 07929391942 www.baby-a-wake.co.uk

Jane Wake ad.indd 1 05/05/2010 21:46

Small – class sizes of 6 to 12 children

Well-staffed – Children’s nurseries from birth to five no agency or temporary Open hours: 8am to 6.30pm staff. Ever If you want to visit any of our popular day nurseries please contact us on 020 8673 5110 or email [email protected] Energetic – outside play Battersea (Webbs Road) area and Battersea (Lavender Hill) additional activities Clapham (Old Town) Balham (Balham High Road) Flexible – For more information please visit www.babyroom.co.uk extra days and day swaps

We have such a happy, kind, thoughtful little girl and have you all to thank for this.

Autumn 12 49 Advertising

fun and wellbeing for families

Come and visit us in Putney, Wandsworth and now Parsons Green Cupcake is a welcoming, comfortable, modern space designed to suit your family life; whether you are planning your first baby or you are old hands at managing the adventures parenting brings, you can cherish the moments together. Your Cupcake membership lets you and your family enjoy free classes and seminars, unlimited use of the fitness area, a wide range of baby/child activities, our crèche and a ball pool play room, plus our café and award-winning spa.

If you would like to visit a Cupcake location, please ring your local club or email [email protected]. For more information visit www.cupcakemum.com Cupcake Putney 10 Point Pleasant, SW18 1GG Telephone: 020 8875 1065 Cupcake Wandsworth 18 Earlsfield Road, SW18 3DW Telephone: 020 3370 4999 Cupcake Parsons Green 11 Heathmans Road, SW6 4TJ Telephone: 020 3326 4986

NCT_Cupcake1.indd 1 17/8/09 13:36:36 www.nct.org.uk/clapham 50 • Relief from wind, colic & constipation

• Stimulates babys digestion & circulation

• Helps with language Baby Massage Classes development Come along and learn the basics of Baby Massage with rhymes, music and sensory development for you and your baby. • Learn to understand your babys behaviour Advertising Each session takes place in a relaxing yet stimulating environment for your newest little addition. Each week you will be taken through a new massage technique to use for aiding baby’s sleep, digestion, growth, immunity and not to mention our colic routine which seems to be a huge hit for all babies who visit us! Sensory play equipment and Baby Yoga movements are also incorporated into the session. With a great mix of activities, the class will leave both mother and baby feeling happy and relaxed and eager to come back for the next class!

For babies from 4 weeks to crawling! T. 0845 519 6442 E. [email protected] Held at Happy Faces, Webbs Rd, SW11 or in your own home. W. www.tinytiptoes.co.uk

SLEEP CONSULTANT EATING AND WEANING BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINE [email protected] www.bespokenanny.com 07787 821 525

Autumn 12 51 Advertising

Fun, Fitness and Music AT THE COMMON GROUND CAFE BAR Classes held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10% For children aged 4 mths to 4 yrs discount 10% discount on all orders ST also available at: at MELOBABY.com WE SPECIALISE IN 1 BIRTHDAY PARTIES Discount code: NCT10 For further info 01895 623999 [email protected] www.amandasactionclub.co.uk

amandasactionclub actionamanda amandasaction £2 DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT This voucher can be used once only in a single transaction. Valid until 31.12.12

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 52 4Baby Massage... a wonderful skill for any parent to learn Many health benefits including relief of colic, wind and other discomforts

Promotes a loving bond between Advertising parent and child Helen offers one to one tuition or teaches private groups eg NCT Sunday workshops/home groups available so Dads can learn too! Classes/workshops available at Neal’s Yard Remedies, SW11

www.helenmartinrolls.co.uk 07843 224079

Helen Martin Massage ad 82.5mmx126mm.indd 1 12/08/2012 14:09

www.nativegifts.co.uk

Award winning balms, bath oils, body butters & more, all beautifully wrapped with a handwritten message. Perfect for Mother & Baby, Mums-to-be... every occasion!

To receive 10% o your first purchase enter coupon code 10%NCTSEPT12.

Expiry 31.12.12. Terms & conditions apply. See website for details. Gorgeously Organic Gift Sets

Autumn 12 53

has arrived in LONDON Advertising

Capturing the art of Maternity w w w . t w e l v e i m a g e s . c o . u k Martha Grieve | [email protected] | 07791 655354

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 54 your interactive personal directory of

baby changing Advertising facilities in your pocket

Find Rate Share

You’re out for the day. Your baby is crying up a storm. You don’t know where the nearest baby changing room is? That’s where the beauty of NCT’s Babychange app comes into life.

www.nct.org.uk/babychanging Sponsored by Free to download

Autumn 12 55 Advertising

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 56 New_82.5x126mm Waterlife_ad 1/2/10 11:14 Page 1

Baby’s Wednesdays Complimentary tea or coffee on Wednesdays for parents painting baby’s

footprints on pottery. Advertising

Paint your own Specialising in Baby Swimming, beautiful Pre-school Swimmers and Toddlers Emma •Warm pools•Small classes Bridgewater •Dad's welcome!•Saturday classes pottery

We also stock the full Emma Bridgewater range, a selection of traditional toys, have high chairs, baby changing and serve great coffee For more information call 0208 947 2149 and cakes! or email [email protected] 153 Northcote Road SW11 6QB tel: 020 7223 3388 www.pottery-cafe.com

Autumn 12 57 Advertising

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 58

THE WHITE HOUSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 7 - 11 years Academic and sports scholarships at 7+ entry

Advertising

‘The White House Preparatory School provides an Outstanding quality of education.’ - Ofsted 2011

Tel: 020 8674 9514 24 Thornton Road SW12 0LF Email: [email protected] Website: www.whitehouseschool.com

WOODENTOPS WOODENTOPS DAY KINDERGARTEN NURSERY Est. 1985 6 months - 5 years 2 - 5 years Early Years Centre of Excellence Mon - Fri: 8.00 am - 6.00 pm 50 weeks per year

‘The Early Years Foundation Stage ensures that Excellent, experienced and loving staff will provide children make an excellent start.’ - Ofsted 2011 your child with a complete care and educational programme.

Tel: 020 8674 9514 Tel: 020 8674 9514 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 24 Thornton Road SW12 0LF 24 Thornton Road SW12 0LF

Autumn 12 59 Branch information

Diary Dates Branch meetings Nearly new sales Open to all NCT members, these give you the chance to The next Nearly New Sale will be on the 22nd September, meet some volunteers and perhaps be inspired to volun- table bookings being taken now. teer yourself! Dates of meetings in 2012: Location: Broomwood Methodist Church, 1 October 6 November 155a Broomwood Rd (corner of Broomwood and

Your Local NCT Your 5 December Kyrle Rd) Contact [email protected] Venues to be confirmed. Please contact [email protected] Nearly new maternity sale for more details. Date to be confirmed hopefully October 2012 Please contact [email protected] for Welcome evenings further details. The next welcome evening for parents-to-be is in the process of being booked so please contact us if you For up-to-date details about all of these events, would like more details at [email protected] . please see www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/clapham/ events or contact [email protected] Homebirth support evenings or call 0844 243 6092 (option 1). Please contact Therese Solon on 020 8772 8932 for more information.

Branch Team Postnatal Support MSLC Reps – Co-Chairs – Breastfeeding counsellors Maternity Service Liaison Jenny Hemsley & Natalie Thomas Sharon George Committee representatives - [email protected] [email protected] Wandsworth Tel: 0844 243 6092 (option 1) – Postnatal tea coordinator Julie Morris – Treasurer Helen Gilbert Chelsea & Westminster Hannah Dobson [email protected] Angela Yates [email protected] – Open House host Tel: 020 8879 7081 – Membership Secretary VACANT St. Thomas’ Joe Frankham [email protected] VACANT [email protected] If you are interested in becoming an – Events Coordinator Information, Media MSLC rep, please contact Amanda Thomas [email protected] [email protected] & Advertising Plus representatives from all the – Editor Contacts other groups VACANT Website www.nct.org.uk/clapham [email protected] Chair [email protected] Antenatal Support – Magazine designer Editor [email protected] – Parent Services Administrator Claire Speight Course Bookings Carla Da Cruz [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 0844 243 6927/ – Advertising [email protected] Karen Beasley The volunteers listed on these – Welcome Evenings [email protected] pages are happy to answer your [email protected] – Magazine Delivery questions but please try to avoid – Home Birth Support Louise Sharpe calling them between 5-7pm. Therese Solon [email protected] Most have young children and Tel: 020 8772 8932 – PR Officers are typically dealing with teatime, – Home Birth Support Alicia Stewart bathtime and bedtime routines. Mariana Bubna-Kasteliz [email protected] 020 8247 3865 [email protected] – Multiples Support Nina Girling [email protected]

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 60 Useful organisations Your guide to where to go for information, advice and support

Action on Pre-Eclampsia Fatherhood Institute Helpline 020 8427 4217 Provides information on fathers’ 9am-5pm weekdays rights, newsletters and a chat group. Wandworth Twins Club www.apec.org.uk www.fatherhoodinstitute.org Parenthood support, playgroup and events run Active Birth Centre Foundation for the Study of by parents of twins, for parents and 020 7281 6760 Infant Deaths parents-to-be of twins and multiples www.activebirthcentre.com For advice on protecting babies from in the the Wandsworth Borough and AIMS (Association for the Improvement cot deaths, accidents and infections, South West London area. of the Maternity Services) as well as support for bereaved parents: www.wandsworthtwinsclub.org.uk 0808 802 6868 Publishes leaflets concerning Working Families every aspect of maternity care. 9am-6pm weekdays www.fsid.org.uk Offer support on employment rights, 0300 365 0663 childcare and flexible working. www.aims.org.uk Gingerbread 020 7253 7243 Antenatal Results & Choices (ARC) Support for lone parent families. Free helpline for low income families: Offers information and support for Freephone 0808 802 0925 0800 013 0313 abnormal test results. 9am-5pm weekdays (8pm on Wed) www.workingfamilies.org.uk 020 7631 0285 www.gingerbread.org.uk www.arc-uk.org Home-Start NCT Resources Association for Spina Bifida and For practical help at home. Phone numbers: Hydrocephalus (ASBAH) 08000 686368 Breastfeeding Line: 0300 330 0771 0845 450 7755 8am-8pm Mon-Fri and 9am-12pm Sat Postnatal Line: 0300 330 0773 www.asbah.org www.home-start.org.uk Pregnancy and Birth Line: Maternity Action 0300 330 0772 Association for Post-Natal Illness NCT Enquiries: 0300 330 0770 020 7386 0868 For advice and information on benefits and rights. Can also recommend Membership Hotline: 0844 243 7000 10am-2pm weekdays Shared Experiences Helpline: www.apni.org specialist lawyers. 020 7281 7816 0300 330 0700 BLISS www.maternityaction.org.uk Offers support to parents of premature Websites: or sick babies. The Miscarriage Association 01924 200799 www.nct.org.uk FREEPHONE 0500 618140 www.nctshop.co.uk (NCT products) 9am-9pm weekdays 9am-4pm weekdays www.bliss.org.uk www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk Online NCT Chat Groups: Caesarean Caesarean Birth and VBAC Information National Childminding Association of England & Wales http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ Website run by NCT volunteers and nct-caesarean/ caesarean birth experts. Freephone 0800 169 4486 www.caesarean.org.uk www.ncma.org.uk NCT ‘coffee’ group National Diation http://health.groups.yahoo.com/ Caesarean Support Network: group/nct-coffee/ 01624 661269 after 6pm and weekends Publishes downloadable factsheets 0870 7744 244 Dads Childcare Link www.ndna.org.uk http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NC- For listings of local childminders and TEDads/ childcare organisations. NICE (National Institute for 0800 096 0296 Clinical Excellence) Green parenting www.childcarelink.gov.uk Produces downloadable guidelines http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nct_ on appropriate treatment and care green_parenting/ Serene/CRY-SIS of people with specific diseases & Homebirth (help with crying babies) conditions. www.nice.org.uk 0845 1228 669 http://health.groups.yahoo.com/ 9am-10pm 7 days a week Older mothers group/homebirthUK/ www.cry-sis.org.uk Provides medical information and a Parenting teenagers chat group. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ Daycare Trust www.mothers35plus.co.uk Publishes guides to choosing childcare. NCTparentingteenagers/ 0845 872 6251 One Parent Families Preterm babies www.daycaretrust.org.uk 0800 018 5026 http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ www.oneparentfamilies.org.uk Disabled Parents Network nct-preterm/ 0300 3300 639 Premature Babies – see ‘BLISS’ Single parents (or single parents to be) www.disabledparentsnetwork.org.uk SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ Disability, Pregnancy and Death Society) offer support for any- NCTsingleparents/ Parenthood International one affected by the death of a baby. NCT announcements Information line: 0800 018 4730 020 7436 5881 or www.uk-sands.org (join to receive regular NCT updates) UK textphone: 0800 018 9949 Twins & Multiple Births Association http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nct_ www.dppi.org.uk (TAMBA) announce/ Freephone Twinline 0800 138 0509 10am-1pm and 7pm-10pm Autumn 12 www.tamba.org.uk 61 Bookworm is made possible thanks to Under the greenwood tree, 11 The Polygon, Clapham, SW4 0JG Bookworm Tel: 020 7627 4557 www.underthegreenwoodtree.co.uk Al Walmsley reviews…

The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker Simon & Schuster, £14.99 (hardback) I was instinctively suspicious about the potential merits of The Age of Miracles. The Parenthood sleeve notes inform the reader that Karen Thompson Walker, whose debut novel this is, wrote it “in the mornings before work.” However, a quick google reveals that her work was as an editor at Simon & Schuster, the company that published the novel. Yet any concerns about literary nepotism were swiftly dispelled by the quality of the concept and – in the main – the writing. The novel is about Julia, the pre-pubescent narrator, who wakes one morning to the news that the rotation of the Earth has begun to slow, and that scientists are unable to explain why.

Thompson Walker’s novel is not a world of fire and brimstone, but as one reviewer termed it, “an apocalypse of the mundane.” Nothing here is ever explained, from the birds that begin to fall dead from the sky, to the changing behaviour of those close to Julia, as society splits between those who continue to follow the 24 hour clock and “real-timers” living still by the cycle of daylight. As a result, the reader is left as uncertain as Julia herself, and the sense of perpetual unease is the novel’s most suc- cessful elements. While there are also elements that grate, notably the caricatures of American adolescence – the moody outsider for whom Julia falls, the prom queen who blanks her – and the author’s tendency to telegraph the future – “this would be the last time I ate pineapple” – this is, overall, a compelling read. The 3 day nanny by Kathryn Mewes Vermillion London, £12.99 (paperback) As a new parent I often found myself completely bamboozled by the quantity and variety of guides and manuals available, all looking to solve different problems we may experience with our children at different times in their lives. Wouldn’t it be great if there was just one handbook that did it all in a concise and simple-to-use format? That is what Kathryn Mewes has set out to do in her new book, subtitled “Simple three-day solutions for sleeping, eating, potty training and behaviour challenges.” Based on her experience working as a nanny and consultant to numerous families, Mewes has written a “how to” guide which covers three of the most common chal- lenges parents face with their children aged six months to six years. Clearly a differ- ent approach is required for different ages and so the book features three different three day plans to help solve sleeping, eating and behaviour problems in the different age groups. The final chapter tackles potty training. As an avid reader of parent- ing books – yes, still! – I found this book refreshingly full of common sense advice. Mewes avoids the mistake many “experts” make of operating in the theoretical realm rather than presenting real life solutions based on practical experience. Whether or not you follow the three day plans to the letter, there is plenty of good advice to dip into and this is a book that would certainly quickly earn its place

Join us for an exclusive event with Kathryn Mewes on 1 October at Under the Greenwood Tree, Clapham. Kathryn will be talking about encouraging independence, handling tantrums and potty training. There will be lots of opportunities to ask questions as well as the chance to browse this lovely toy and book with 10% off all purchases. Copies of The 3 day nanny will be on sale at the special price of £9.99. Tickets £5 to include light refreshments. Contact [email protected]

Lunchtime by Rebecca Cobb Macmillan, £10.99 I am a sucker for well illustrated children’s books and Lunchtime definitely ticks that box. Even better, the words and the pictures are both by Cobb and so perfectly complement each other. Lunchtime is a quirky tale about an imaginary but all too familiar scenario for many parents when a little girl decides she’s too busy playing to eat. Compelled to sit at the table nonetheless, she gives her lunch away to a variety of animals who greedily eye her soup and sandwiches. Initially pleased to have duped her mother, the little girl soon wishes that she had been less keen to donate her meal as her tummy is rumbling noisily. Needless to say dinner time is a very different story. A cute book with a more serious underlying message for our little ones.

www.nct.org.uk/clapham 62

Calling all new NCT mums & dads - Come and join us at our special FREE monthly NCT class on the last Friday of the month at 11am. Spaces are limited, so ring to reserve your slot. SEE YOU SOON!

The Little Gym is the leading, gymnastic based, development programme for children aged from as young as 4 months to 12 years. We are dedicated to developing your child’s co-ordination, balance, confidence, listening and social skills whilst having heaps of FUN. Through weekly classes, our friendly instructors build confidence in parents about what their little ones can achieve and the benefits of starting their physical development as early as possible. The Little Gym is also a great way to meet lots of new local friends.

You can enrol all year round and we offer a free INTRODUCTORY SESSION which is a great way to see how much FUN your kids can have while growing their skills.

Please call us to book your free INTRODUCTORY SESSION - quoting “TLGNCT” or to reserve your slot in the next NCT session .

The Little Gym Wandsworth & Fulham Compass House, Riverside West  SW18 1DB  Wandsworth 0208 874 6567  [email protected]  www.thelittlegym.co.uk