Reviewed By Us: iCandy MiChairRead More Buy Now Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 October 2023 No Comments on Reviewed By Us: iCandy MiChair Reviewed By Us: iCandy MiChair Reviewed By: TMC Reader Jessica Issit Pros It lasts from newborn to six years (rocker to highchair to seat). It has multiple features like the toy bars. Great supportive cushion. Very aesthetically pleasing. Cons Not the quickest to build Overall thoughts I love this highchair. It’s so sturdy, feels very secure, and supports my son well. It blends into the home and is the perfect height to place at our dining table. Unlike other highchairs, it doesn’t sit in the middle of the kitchen getting in the way. It also comes with a 10-year warranty, which I think is incredible and really makes you trust the brand. Parenting can become extremely expensive, so knowing that we have made that investment which will see us through our son’s childhood is great. Was it good value? It is an expensive addition, but if you were to break down the costs of purchasing a highchair, a rocker and a young child’s chair, as well as the added features like the toy bar, it suddenly seems very affordable. Especially when you consider that it is so stylish, and all the components look great in the home. Would you recommend it? Yes, I would. It is one timeless item that grows with your child throughout the years. So you don’t have to think about the next purchase for each stage. It is sturdy and secure as well as stylish and discreet—10/10 from me. Product specs: -H87 x w60 x d56,5Cm -Weight 6,6Kg -A blend of natural materials and soft fabrics. -The Newborn Pod features two lockable height positions and has a detachable toy bar. It can be used as either a rocker on the floor or docked onto the MiChair. -The MiChair is complete with a highchair, removable tray, T-bar, one-touch buckle harness and adjustable footrest. -The MiChair transforms into a toddler chair by simply removing the T-bar. Buy Now
Reviewed By Us: Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep Day & Night MachineRead More Buy Now Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 October 2023 No Comments on Reviewed By Us: Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep Day & Night Machine Reviewed By Us: Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep Day & Night Machine Reviewed By: Andi Venardos, Mother to 5 month old Achi. Pros Makes a bottle in 2 minutes at the perfect temperature Easy to clean Antibacterial filter that lasts 3 months & the machine tells you when you need to change it Digital display that lights up at night Cons You can only make a minimum of 4oz or 120ml (wasted milk in the early days) If you make an error while selecting feed size, your only option is to switch the machine off from the mains and start again Overall thoughts Two words: GAME CHANGER. I had to start topping up my breastfeeding feeds with formula as I wasn’t producing enough milk for my son. This machine has been a lifesaver. It prepares a bottle in 2 minutes at the perfect temperature. I would recommend it to any new parents. This honestly makes life so much easier. The only downside is that the smallest bottle it makes is 4 oz – so a lot of wasted milk, especially in the early days. What is it? And how do we use it? This is a great concept and is like an espresso machine for formula. No more waiting for kettles to boil and cool down. Just add your formula to the bottle and follow the clear step-by-step instructions on the screen, which is invaluable when tiredness during night feeds takes over. So easy to use and means that partners and even friends and family can help out with feeds. Was it good value? It’s a great price point considering how often it’s used. Two minutes to make a perfect bottle definitely beats the kettle method at 3 am. And I think it’s good value for money. Would you recommend it? Absolutely, I simply can’t imagine life without it. It’s so quick and simple to use, especially in the middle of the night. It’s made our life so much better. Product specs: – Energy Efficient – Antibacterial Filter – 2 year warranty – 3 colour ways – Dimensions 21.6 x 30.6 x 33 cm – Weight 2.2 Kilograms Buy Now
Reviewed By Us: Britax ADVANSAFIX i-SIZE Car SeatRead More Buy now *All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 October 2023 No Comments on Reviewed By Us: Britax ADVANSAFIX i-SIZE Car Seat Reviewed By Us: Britax ADVANSAFIX i-SIZE Car Seat Reviewed By: TMC Editor Lydia House Pros Installation is easy Suit 15 months to 12 years Study and well made Fabric covers made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles. Easy and safe click in and comfortable for child Cons It’s fairly expensive “It was remarkably easy to install” Overall thoughts This is a brilliant car seat that’s incredibly easy to install. We needed a new car seat for my 18-month-old son, and we were sent this to try. We’d already purchased another brand for our 3-year-old, so it was interesting to see how this compared. The installation was so much easier, and I needed zero help, which was a surprise as I’ll be honest, I’m not the best at this kind of thing. The instructions can be found via the QR code on its tag, which I liked as it minimises the seat’s packaging. Its design makes clicking in a doddle, and I feel reassured that my son is safe and secure as it is much sturdier than our other seat. You can tell it’s incredibly well made and built to last – which is handy, seeing as you can use it up to a whopping 12 years old! Was it good value? It is an expensive addition, but considering it seats up to 12 years old, it’s pretty good value. The inserts also come off really easily and are simple to put back on. One quick wash in the machine and it looks brand new. Our other seat has cushion pads that are already falling apart and it may have been £60/80 cheaper but you can see why. Would you recommend it? Yes, I would. I like that it comes in lots of colours. We just went for a basic black but it has a cool green trim and it looks really smart in our car. It’s easy to install as I already mentioned and my son goes in with ease and click in is simple. Product specs: Dimensions: H60 – W83 x D44 x 47 cm Weight: 11 kg Forward facing installation: 76 – 150 cm Buy now *All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Reviewed By Us: WrenRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 October 2023 No Comments on Reviewed By Us: Wren Reviewed By Us: Wren Reviewed by Andi Venardos Pros Well made with spare parts Easy to assemble/dissemble Great value for money Great customer service Cons Maximum strength is 232mmHG Overall thoughts This is such a great product! The way the pump is designed allows me to do things while pumping without worrying about leaks. It’s comfortable, discreet and easy to clean. The battery lasts a long time, and I can go several sessions without recharging it. From packaging to product, everything has been so well thought out. What is it? And how do you use it? It is a hands-free and discreet breast pump that you place inside your bra to collect your milk. It comes with different-sized breast shields, so that once you’ve found the one that suits, you simply place the machine in your bra, align it with your nipple, and press go. The pump automatically turns off after 30 minutes, or you can just stop it manually when you have enough milk. Was it good value? Yes, I think it’s incredible value for money. Initially, I was sceptical as it was a brand I’d never heard of, and the price point was lower than its competitors. However, I’m so glad I supported a small UK business and purchased this. It’s a dream to use and comes with so many handy accessories like the 150ml BPA-free bottle and lids, different sizes of breast shield adaptors, nursing-bra adjusters, spare seal rings, spare valves, spare diaphragms, a USB charging cable, a bottle brush and even a free cotton carry bag. Would you recommend it? Most definitely, and I have already to all my friends on the breastfeeding/expressing journey. Product Specs – Free Wren Tote Bag – Leakproof – 2-hour battery life – BPA-free plastic – No wires – Charge with USB-C (cables provided) – Comes with three size flanges: 17mm, 21mm & 25mm – Spare valve – Spare diaphragm – Nursing bra adjuster – Spare 150ml BPA-free bottle and lid – Bottle brush – Spare seal rings – Less than 50 decibels – Available in white or green – Wren’s customer service team are always on hand to help you out with questions and set up Latest Deals From Retailers د.إ755.20 View Now
TMC Recipe of the Week: Salted Dark chocolate Date BarkRead More View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deliciously Ella (@deliciouslyella) Post author By The Mum Club Post date 9 October 2023 No Comments on TMC Recipe of the Week: Salted Dark chocolate Date Bark TMC Recipe of the Week: Salted Dark chocolate Date Bark Ingredients • 20 Medjool dates, pitted • 1/2 cup Peanuts, Raw • 1/3 cup Peanut butter, Creamy • 1 1/2 cups Chocolate chips • 1 Pinch Salt, Flaky • 1 tsp Coconut oil Method 1. To make this bark, start by preparing the dates: slice the dates open and remove the pits. Then, smash them down and line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 2. Next, spray a drinking glass with oil (I used coconut oil) and use the bottom of the glass to press the dates down and flatten them. 3. Then, use a spoon to drizzle the peanut butter over the dates, and top with the crushed peanuts. 4. Set the tray aside and add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a small bowl. 5. Melt the chocolate by placing the bowl into the microwave and heating it in 2-3, 30 second increments, being sure to stir in-between. 5. Then, pour the melted chocolate on top of the date and peanut mixture, then refrigerate for one hour or freeze for 35 minutes, until the chocolate is set. 6. Once done, sprinkle with flaky salt, break apart, and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, in the fridge, for up to one week. Watch how to make it… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deliciously Ella (@deliciouslyella)
Mum Guilt: Why We Need To Let it Go!Read More Stop Comparing Yourself To Others You are NOT the same as your best mate, sister, or mum. Your life is different. YOU are different. Stop comparing what you do against… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 October 2023 No Comments on Mum Guilt: Why We Need To Let it Go! Mum Guilt: Why We Need To Let it Go! Stop Comparing Yourself To Others You are NOT the same as your best mate, sister, or mum. Your life is different. YOU are different. Stop comparing what you do against what they do. Where they’re excelling, you might struggle, but we bet they envy some of the parental practices you deploy. Parent how you want to parent, and we bet the way that looks is just great. You’re Gonna Feel It No Matter What You Do Even if you’re Mary Freakin’ Poppins, you will feel guilt. SAHM, working Mum, solo mum, leave me alone mum, play all day mum. YOU WILL FEEL GUILT. You’re damned if you do, and you’re damned if you don’t. Like water to a flame, you’re just giving it the fire it wants. So go easy on yourself and give yourself a break. Kids Are Happy Doing Very Little You don’t need to be an all-singing, all-dancing kiddie centre tour guide. One of the best things about young children is that they love discovering the simple things in life. Be it the garden centre, the weekly shop or popping to the local park. Keep it simple. There’s plenty of time for adventures in Peppa Pig world and such. Right now, they’re just happy being around you. Take Everything You See With A Pinch Of Salt It’s normal to wonder how the Insta perfect mum stays happy while she’s covered in glitter and caring for kids all day. Or how a working mum fits in all her travels, socialising and still has family time. They feel guilt too. Remember, you’re not seeing everything. What we see online is just a snippet of what really goes on in people’s lives. You Can’t Pour From An Empty Cup You time is imperative to parenting. If you are fulfilled, your child will feel that and shine like a beacon. Leaving your kids to do something for you is not something to feel guilt over. It is for them because it is for you. It’s that simple. Give Yourself Room To Not Be ‘Perfect’ Whatever you think that ‘perfect’ is. Give yourself a break. Nothing will happen like you’d like it to all the time. Embrace the imperfection. You’re doing an incredible job! Stand By Your Choices Make choices based on your values, and then stand by those choices. It’s natural to wobble once you’ve made a decision, *especially if your MIL makes a snide comment. But if you’ve decided to do something and considered the options (about three million times). We bet it’s the best thing to do.
Reviewed By Us: Bugaboo ButterflyRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 26 September 2023 No Comments on Reviewed By Us: Bugaboo Butterfly Reviewed By Us: Bugaboo Butterfly Reviewed by Harley Waller – TMC Affiliate & Admin Co-Ordinator Pros Lightweight yet sturdy It’s stylish One-handed fold, which makes it easy to put up/down . Certified for air travel by the International Air Transport Association. Can go on the plane as hand luggage. Cons Doesn’t lie flat Can only be used from 6+months Scratches easily Overall thoughts I bought it last year for a family holiday, and I loved it so much that it replaced my everyday pram and now lives in the boot of my car. It’s robust, stylish, well-made, and super compact. I’m currently using it for my 2 and ½-year-old girl. However, it’s still roomy enough for my 4 and ½-year-old. What is it? And how do you use it? This quick-fold pushchair weighs only 7.3kg and is excellent for travel and everyday use. It’s easy and smooth to manoeuvre even on irregular ground, such as packed gravel. I’ve found it super convenient to bring to restaurants as it easily folds, and I can place it under the table. Was it good value? Granted, this is an expensive pram. But it has such a luxurious feel, has so many features and is used so often that the cost per use is miniscule. Would you recommend it? Without a doubt. I much prefer it to my previous travel pram, and I’m glad I made the switch. Product Specs – Weighs 7.3kg – 6 months – approx. 4 years old (max 22 kg/48.50 lbs) – The under-seat basket holds 8kg of storage – Compact fold 45 x 23 x 54 cm – Extra-large UPF 50+ sun canopy with extendable breezy panel – Self-standing design – Quick-click 5-point harness – Adjustable leg rest – Wear-resistant and shock-absorbing wheels – Available in Midnight Black, Storm Blue and Forest Green – Carry strap (included) – Rain cover (included) – Certified for air travel by the International Air Transport Association – Car seat compatible Latest Deals From Retailers د.إ 2599 View Now
Nursery Sickness Made Me Want to Quit My JobRead More TMC’s Editor Lydia House explains how she dealt with sickness after returning to work. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Working Momkind (@workingmomkind) “My husband and I… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 26 September 2023 No Comments on Nursery Sickness Made Me Want to Quit My Job Nursery Sickness Made Me Want to Quit My Job “It was when I turned to my husband and said, “I hate my life and I’m feeling depressed”, that I realised something needed to change.” TMC’s Editor Lydia House explains how she dealt with sickness after returning to work. Returning to work… “After deciphering my work and ‘mum life’ scenario, I felt confident about returning to work.” “I was excited to start a new job, and after dropping my youngest off at nursery and seeing how happy he was, I felt the most extraordinary mental release.” “As I had my first coffee alone, preparing to sit down to work and tackle the day, I felt free and in control.” “It was so lovely to plan and plot in some meetings while slotting in elements of self-care. I could now book fitness classes before work and even have a pedi before pick-ups. I was so excited to get a slice of my old life back.” “And then my phone rang…” Juggling sickness and a job “After only two days I had to collect my son from nursery because he had a high temp.” “Then in the days and weeks that followed, we multiple bugs that hit our household and my husband was also away on business. The illness list on the nursery door started to feel like a joke. I felt like I was living in a nightmare.” “My new company was understanding and gave me some time off, but I still had to accomplish a certain degree of work. Which meant looking after sick children, battling my own illnesses and working in the evening or around naps.” “I felt overwhelmed. It was all-encompassing. And I started to feel like I couldn’t even think. I had to cancel everything, and I began to feel like I could never plan ahead through fear of letting people down.” “It made me feel disconnected from reality, that I was becoming a bad friend, and never before have I felt such sadness and an inability to cope.” Hitting rock bottom… “I find it hard to vocalise my feelings and often they come out either in an argument or in bed when all is calm, just before my husband and I go to sleep. And I remember this moment vividly. With our backs turned I whispered, “I hate my life and I feel like I’m depressed.” Unsurprisingly shocked and saddened, he responded, “It’s just a moment. It’ll pass, and it’ll get better. It’s just really tough right now.”” “And while he was right, life had become a horrible treadmill for me. The nursery calls and pick-ups were all on me, and the caregiving, house, and life admin – all on me! And on top of this, I had a new job that I wanted to excel at. Ok, it wasn’t as well paid as his, but it was my career, and I wanted to have the chance to be brilliant at it. On top of this, all self-care methods were certainly not being done. I wasn’t eating well or exercising, and I don’t think I’d shaved my legs for at least a month. I wasn’t in a good way, and something needed to change.” Did I need to quit my job? “Was the solution that we pulled them out of the nursery, and I quit my job? Maybe I’d gone back to work too soon. Perhaps they were too small? Maybe they needed to be with a nanny instead of in the nursery. But how would I make that work? I always said I wanted them to socialise in childcare rather than being with one person as I would feel like they would be replacing me. But maybe I was wrong? And then I saw this Instagram post about a woman who went through the same thing. It made me realise it wasn’t the childcare that needed to change; it was me.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Working Momkind (@workingmomkind) What we did to improve our situation “My husband and I agreed we needed a contingency plan for when shit hit the fan. It couldn’t all be on me anymore.” We asked for help We used grandparents (*and infected them) a lot! They stopped wanting to come over a bit. And we were worried we might kill them a few times. But they saved us! We shared the load Just because someone earns more or works more doesn’t mean the other person should take on everything else in the home, and it took me nearly breaking for us to realise that. Now things are a lot more even, and it helps. We give each other space on weekends If it has been a tough week for me or my husband, one of us takes the kids away for a morning or afternoon at the weekend. We’ve realised we don’t always have to go to every family event or children’s class. And often this time and peace is all we need to reboot. We booked a buffer day I only work part-time, so we added another half day to the time our children are at nursery. This extra cost might seem like an indulgence, and it’s a privilege, I know! But it’s enabled me to push work on if I need to take time out to care for them earlier in the week. And when they’re not sick, I use it to do stuff for the house or even for myself. The impact it’s made on my mental health vs. the cost doesn’t even come close and it’s worth every penny. We remind ourselves it’s just a phase After a few stints of sickness and cancelling plans, we realised that everything could be rescheduled. There’s no denying it might be shit for a while, but as they get older and their immune systems get stronger, it gets easier and less frequent. Other things that could help Mix up your childcare options “To widen their options, some parents use nursery a few days a week, and then they have a nanny on the other days. We decided against it as it seemed like another thing I’d have to manage but I have often thought it would be handy to have another person to call when I’m really stuck. It can be helpful to have lots of childcare options in case things don’t go to plan. Obviously if your children are sick they need to be looked after at home but having extra options can be helpful, especially if you’re ill yourself, if can’t get to the nursery to pick up, or if you’re back-pedalling and need to ask for extra help.” Get outside “If the kids are off school and you can’t work, take the opportunity to slow down. Enjoy the cuddles, forget the housework and your external stresses and focus on what’s important (*which is getting you and your family healthy again). Whenever the kids are off sick, if it is possible (and they’re not vomming) I bundle them up in the double pram and head out for a walk. The fresh air does wonders for my mood and it lifts them too.” Rework your self-care “If you’ve had to cancel appointments and the concept of glossy blow-dried hair seems like a dream. Then get in that shower! Treat yourself to a new body wash, a face mask, some new loungewear or anything that you can enjoy at home that will make you feel good while you’re stuck there. Get to bed earlier, drink herbal tea and practice a slower pace of life where you’re looking after yourself. Book an at home massage or a treatment at the weekend when your partner is home to take the kids. Maybe even book one for them too. Whatever works – just do it! You’ll feel so much better.” Speak to your work “You’re certainly not the first parent to encounter going back to work when you have a small child. So speak to your company and get their advice. Find out what the protocol is for dealing with situations like this. Hopefully they’ll be understanding and they’ll help you but if they’re not then don’t be afraid to read up on your rights. The days you’re allowed off will depend on your contract but the Citizens Advice Bureau also states: “You can take up to 18 weeks’ unpaid leave before your child is five. The Gov UK website recommends checking the details of your employment contract, your company handbook or the intranet site to get clued up on their individual policy. And remember BOTH parents are allowed time off to look after their children.” GOV UK: Time off for family and dependants Share the organisation of what going back to work looks like “Instead of waiting to speak to your partner when the shit hits the fan. Do it before you return to work. Have a few plans in place and decide how things might work together. You might have already done this but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it again. If you share the mental load in the beginning it should mean that if things need to be shifted and rejigged you’ll both feel responsible about managing it.” Be kind to yourself “It’s common to feel like you’re trying and failing at everything. But it’s important to be kind to yourself in these moments and slow down. Take things as they come, minute by minute. And try not to think too much about what’s going to happen and be kind to yourself. You can only do so much.”
TMC Date Night Recipe: Nobu Style Black CodRead More View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nadia Aidi (@foodmymuse) Post author By The Mum Club Post date 22 September 2023 No Comments on TMC Date Night Recipe: Nobu Style Black Cod TMC Date Night Recipe: Nobu Style Black Cod When you can’t get out to a swanky restaurant – bring date night indoors! *Black cod in your pjs = bliss! Ingredients •1/4 cup mirin •1/4 cup sake •1/3 cup miso paste •1/3 cup cane sugar •2 lb black cod (deboned, cut into filets) Method 1. Boil the mirin and sake for 3 min. 2. Add in sugar and miso. Cook a couple min without boiling. Let it cool. 3. Pour it all over your fish, cover it VERY tightly and marinate for 24-48 hrs in fridge. 4. Broil it (I did 7 min) but every oven is different so keep an eye out. Watch how to make it… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nadia Aidi (@foodmymuse)
The Books to Prepare You for Birth and BabyRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 September 2023 No Comments on The Books to Prepare You for Birth and Baby The Books to Prepare You for Birth and Baby From baby sleep to postpartum care these are the books that helped us navigate the new mum era. 1. Best for Birth Birth can feel daunting, especially during an NCT show and tell tool class. Those implements are nawt what we want to see! And if you’re hoping for the calmest possible birth (aren’t we all), then it’s worth learning a few hypnobirthing techniques. This book is brilliant and explains the methods simply without making it seem unachievable. Jessica Aanensen – TMC Franchise Coordinator Buy Now 2. Best for Sleep “Sleep, or lack thereof, is one of the most significant issues for new parents. When you’re not getting any, it’s hard to think about anything else, and it can mean you’ll seek help from anywhere and anyone. But with conflicting information everywhere, it can be hard to know what to do. I found this book supremely helpful. Alison’s hands-on experience with thousands of babies gives you confidence that she knows what she’s talking about. And unlike many books, Alison looks at the whole picture and gives you options rather than one set rule for all.” Lauren Webber – TMC Co-Founder Buy Now 3. First Time Parent “I didn’t want info overload when I was pregnant so was happy I found this book, it is completely to the point and has easy-to-read sections I you can dip in and out of. I didn’t have a clue what I needed to know and what I didn’t but this book made me feel prepared without feeling overly stressed” Jen Williamson – TMC Designer Buy Now 4. Best for Troubleshooting “This book is a concise guide for new parents who want to know the basics and the science behind common parenting issues. It helps you understand different opinions and research on topics like co-sleeping and solid foods. It also encourages you to trust your instincts and know your child.” Andi Venardos – TMC Brand Partnership Assistant Buy Now 5. Best for postpartum “This is a brilliant book that all new mums should read. You go through a lot physically and mentally after birth, and often women forget to care for themselves. This is a brilliant reminder not to forget your health and wellbeing. Emma is a leading women’s health physio, and in this easy-to-follow read, she shares her brilliant expertise in an honest and relatable way. Offering helpful tips on recovery for your mind and body after birth. It’s so essential, it should probably be handed out when you’re discharged from the hospital.” Lydia House – TMC Editor Buy Now
