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MAGAZINE
Berrylicious recipes Festive gift guides
for all the family
Merry Green Christmas Sustainable and ethically made clothes
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Inspiring Everyday Family Life
Winter 2020 • Issue 10
ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK
LIVE ON STAG E
‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’
Until 3 January
The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Books
The List
Book online alexandrapalace.com
THE PERFECT FESTIVE TREAT
Contents Winter 2020 • Issue 10
Oh what a year it’s been. There have been many times where I’ve closed my eyes and wished for normality – will we ever see that again? Loved ones have been lost, businesses have suffered – some even have closed its doors. We’ve been challenged as parents and carers in ways that have been unimaginable. I haven’t cuddled my closest people in what feels like forever. Yet somehow, we’ve found a small window of light at the end of the long tunnel. We’ve managed to turn such a huge negative into positives and find little silver linings in the things we’re doing. Movements are happening all around the world and important changes are being made. People are getting together to walk and talk. Mothers and fathers all across the land are able to work from home, and catch glimpses of their children achieving something they wouldn’t have usually seen. This is a season where families far and wide come together, whether we have the opportunity to mix again or have to party over zoom, you must know that the most important thing is that you have each other. Enjoy this special time, make memories with those you love and don’t think about what may be in 2021... we can only live for the now. We hope this colourful, jam-packed edition of Cherubs brings you some comfort and joy in the festive season. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Peace, love and turkey trimmings!
Sevim x
Features 10 20 52 54
Countdown to Christmas... 12 top Advent calendars Have a Merry Green Christmas Born asleep... but alive in our Hearts Life in lockdown
In this edition 6 8 18 46
What’s on Winter news Style – festive dressing Berry recipes by Daddelicious
A taste of ... 16 26 36 40 44 50
Beauty Education Wellbeing Health Living Travel
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Style Editor: Antonia Sanchez–Toomey Healthy Food Editor: Christianna Karaolis Travel Editor: Eda Ayyildiz
Follow us on social media for regular updates @CherubsMagazine
Health & Fitness Editor: Mary Huckle Beauty Editor: Elena Lazarou Designer: Chris Webb Printers: The Roma Group Bio Picture: Tia Talula @tiatalula Location: Your London Florist
To advertise in our next issue email info@cherubsmagazine.com or call 020 3978 7332
Catch up on past issues of Cherubs Magazine online at
While we take every care to ensure details are correct the publisher will take no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are advised to check information published with individual advertisers and take legal advice where appropriate before entering into any transactions. Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Unless specifically stated the publisher does not endorse any product or service appearing in the magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.
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WHAT’S ON
Whats On this festive season
Tulleys Christmas Experience Throughout December, www.tulleysfarm.com
Tulleys Farm is hosting a festive screening of the famous film Elf. Santa’s cinema will include a new drive-thru Christmas foyer on arrival where you will be greeted in person by Santa and his festive friends. Also included in the child tickets are: • a family size bucket of sweet popcorn to enjoy while watching the film (per car). • make a bear • Mother Christmas gingerbread • letter to Santa • official Tulleys Christmas member’s badge.
West End Does: Christmas 2020 Sunday 13 December 2020, 15:00 & 19:00
Brighten your 2020 by starting the festive season in style, with this socially distanced West End Christmas extravaganza featuring stars of the West End performing songs and carols alongside our fabulous West End Band. The Concert will feature some of the biggest names in the West End. This is a socially distanced event, check online for more details.
6 | Cherubs Magazine
A Christmas Carol Screening in December
A brand new retelling of the classic family Christmas tale, will be coming to both cinemas and select theatres nationwide from December, as Scrooge looks to help save Christmas.
Christmas at Kew As twilight falls, the magic begins... Returning for its eighth year, Kew’s enchanting winter trail takes a new route, leading you for the first time through the beautifully illuminated Rose Garden. Old favourites and brand new light installations will sparkle and glow around you, bringing festive cheer to you, your family and friends. Kew light trail postponed until 4 December. Check Kew Covid Guidelines before booking tickets.
Experience Christmas in the Wizarding World Saturday 14 November – Sunday 17 January (Reopening on 3 December pending government guidance) Get into the festive spirit as our annual Hogwarts in the Snow feature returns with more snow than ever! For the very first time, you’re invited to explore another of your favourite sets in the snow as Diagon Alley undergoes a wintery transformation.
Glow
www.rhs.org.uk Enjoy an illuminated adventure at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey. Reimagined for 2020, our longest ever Glow trail follows a magical new route, with brand new light displays and uplifting festive music. Please note: pre-booking tickets for Glow is essential.
Hampton Court Ice Rink
www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Prepare to be swept away by the seasonal atmosphere of Hampton Court Palace this winter as the stunning ice rink returns for another year. Skate against a backdrop of one of the greatest palaces on earth – Henry VIII’s historic home, Hampton Court Palace. The open-air ice rink epitomises the very best in festive fun. (Check website for Covid guidelines.) cherubsmagazine.com
Cherubs Magazine | 7
WINTER NEWS
Winter news Nettlefold Christmas Card
www.nettlefoldhome.co.uk The Animal Friends of Nettlefold (Hopsy, Squashy, Topsy and Shelby) are all ready for some festive cheer. They’re available on the website as a pack of eight containing two of each design. They’re called ‘My First Christmas’ and are designed for children before they are able to make their own cards. Such a lovely happy touch for us to send greetings on the kiddies’ behalf. Nettlefold is all about capturing the magic of childhood so it’s wonderful that we can have some fun and send these playful creatures with some happy Christmas words.
The perfect family treat
The Gruffalo’s Child comes to Alexandra Palace Theatre for Christmas 2020 Internationally acclaimed theatre company Tall Stories brings its celebrated production of The Gruffalo’s Child to the beautiful Alexandra Palace Theatre for a limited Christmas season from 5 December 2020 to 3 January 2021. Don’t miss out on this wonderful tale. Tickets can be purchased at: www.alexandrapalace.com/theatre/whats-on
Letter from Santa with NSPCC
www.letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk/letter-from-santa Make Christmas magical! That moment when your little one realises Santa has written a letter just to them, when their face lights up with excitement and wonder. That’s what a Letter from Santa is all about. Creating those happy memories you will treasure for years to come. Take your pick from a range of eight letters including Baby’s First Christmas, The Elf Cup Final, Santa’s Toy Workshop and there’s even one for pets! Start a tradition that makes Christmas truly unique. With a suggested donation of just £5 per letter, you can spread the magic of Christmas even further and be there for children who need us.
The Mazimba Berry Tree
By Jeffrey Ginsberg A grandparent of two and father of three turns his own wildlife photographs and magical bedtime stories into a children’s book to spread love and appreciation for the African bush. In the first of the series, the book contains photographs of over forty real animals along with a checklist to track the animals your little ones discover. The Mazimba Berry Tree at the heart of the story, is a metaphor for so many endangered species that face the threat of extinction. A proportion of the proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to wildlife charities.
£6.99 from Amazon 8 | Cherubs Magazine
FESTIVE SEASON
‘Tis the season to play Board Games
Little Red Riding Hood Game Ages 4 to 7 Once upon a time, there was a game that tested lil’ people’s thought processes... Created for preschoolers, this 48-challenge game asks players to help Little Red Riding Hood find the right path to her grandma’s house.
£20.00
Throw Throw Burrito Ages 7+ A dodgeball card game from the creators of Exploding Kittens. This is a party game unlike any you’ve played before. It’s a combination of card games and dodgeball where players go head to head collecting cards, earning points, and throwing burritos at one another.
£25.00
Kidly – www.kidly.co.uk
Argos – www.argos.co.uk
Colour Brain Ages 14+ A brilliant game to put players of different ages into teams and pit their knowledge against each other. From remembering the Olympic ring hues to the costumes of the Teletubbies, this game is all about colour. Very simple, easy to play and, with 300 questions available, there’ll be something in there to test everyone’s abilities.
£24.99
Amazon – www.amazon.co.uk
... and buy the children a Christmas gift’
Magicube Animal Friends Building Set Ages 18 months +
Dantoy Bio-Toy Pretend Play Dinner Set Ages 2 to 10
Magnetic Tiles Ages 3+
Horrible Science Explosive Experiments Ages 8+
£12.00
£20.00
£86.00
£13.00
Amazon www.amazon.co.uk
cherubsmagazine.com
Amazon www.amazon.co.uk
Connetix www.connetixtiles.com
Argos www.argos.co.uk
Cherubs Magazine | 9
FESTIVE SEASON
Countdown to Christmas... top Advent calendars
12 6
1
At Cherubs we love anything to do with Christmas, especially if there’s gifts or chocolate involved. So this year, we have rounded up our top 12 Advent calendars for all the family to enjoy.
The Grand Advent Calendar
hotelchocolat.com
2
The Nightmare Before Christmas: Advent Calendar and Pop-Up Book Fun for all the family amazon.co.uk
11 Autograph
12 Days of Beauty Advent calendar gift set marksandspencer.com
Friends: The One with the Surprises amazon.co.uk
10
Classic Beauty Advent Calendar uk.loccitane.com 10 | Cherubs Magazine
5
FESTIVE SEASON
12
3
Woodmansterne Where’s Wally 3D Advent Calendar johnlewis.com
Bonne Maman 2020 Limited Edition
Advent calendar with 24 mini fruit spreads amazon.co.uk
Disney Storybook Collection
9
Igloo Books amazon.co.uk
7
The Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar for Two whittard.co.uk
4 cherubsmagazine.com
Advent Calendar Colouring Book
24 numbered christmas colouring pages for adults and older children amazon.co.uk
8
LEGO Friends Advent Calendar johnlewis.com
12 Days Holiday Advent Calendar Vintage Wine Estates qvc.com
Cherubs Magazine | 11
FESTIVE SEASON
Christmas gift inspiration for you and your pooch For the memories Family print by La Fam Illustration Starting around £45 www.lafamillustration.com A beautiful bespoke illustration of your whole family, including your pets, a wonderful way to capture a moment in a piece of art. Orders to be placed by the end of November latest.
For the walks Dog walking bag by Kintails £80 www.kintails.com Stylish and practical, this bag is great for keeping all your essentials in while out dog walking. The bag strap also doubles up as a spare dog lead which is super handy. Available in navy and green.
For the home Be:Loved boot room candle £15 www.notinthedoghouse.co.uk Perfect for getting rid of pet odours, this natural soy wax candle has been designed to eliminate such smells. The calming lavender and camomile scent is perfect for any home plus you can reuse the glass jar once finished.
For the kids Florence + Ottie children’s t-shirt £42 www.florenceandottie.co.uk Such a special gift for your little ones. This bespoke t-shirt can feature their very own pet. The organic tops come in white, in sizes to fit three to 12-yearolds. Lead time is 3 to 4 weeks, so get your order in quick for Christmas.
For the stocking Emma Bridgewater insulated bottle £25 www. emmabridgewater.co.uk Great for keeping your tea warm in the winter and your water cool in the summer. The must-have bottle for any dog lover. 12 | Cherubs Magazine
Victoria from Pooches & Prams shares her top gift ideas for dog-loving families.
FESTIVE SEASON
For the year Forsyth and Tedd subscription box Starting around £12 www.forsythandtedd.com A monthly box of treats and toys for your pooch. All natural and hand picked, a great gift idea that will keep your dog happy for Christmas and beyond.
For the day Paws Petite neckerchief £7 www.etsy.com/shop/pawspetite Your dog is sure to look super smart in one of these handmade neckerchiefs. They come in a variety of beautiful colours and fabrics and are a lovely alternative to the Christmas jumper.
For the food Stoneware dog bowl by The Stately Hound Starting around £35 www.thestatelyhound.com Handthrown in Whitstable these gorgeous dog bowls are both unique and durable. They come in two sizes and a variety of colours. A chic choice for any dog and home.
For the fun Sophie Allport bee toy £12 www.sophieallport.com These fabric and rope toys are great stocking fillers that will keep your dog entertained. The range also includes a fox, pheasant and a flamingo so something for all dogs depending on what they prefer.
For the bath Grooming duo by Wild For Dogs £28.50 www.wildfordogs.co.uk Organic and eco-friendly this dog shampoo and conditioner is hypoallergenic and free from any nasties, so a great choice for all dog skin types. The high quality of ingredients used leaves your pooch feeling super soft and smelling fresh.
@poochesandprams www.poochesandprams.co.uk
Cherubs Magazine | 13
FESTIVE SEASON
Christmas Homeware Cocktail glasses
Alphabet Christmas sack
£20.00 (set of 2)
£10.00
Nordic House www.nordichouse.co.uk
Matalan www.matalan.co.uk
Faux fur Xmas stocking
£25.00
John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
Extra large mercury silver bauble
£39.95 each
Nordic House www.nordichouse.co.uk
Ditsy holly berry duvet
From £10.00
Matalan www.matalan.co.uk
Set of cheese knives
£20.00
John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
Iced berry bauble candle
£8.00
Next www.next.co.uk
Instagram: @tailormadelivingstore Website: www.tailormadeliving.co.uk 14 | Cherubs Magazine
FESTIVE SEASON
Eucalyptus and laurel wreath
Pretty textured decoration
Lights 4 Fun www.lights4fun.co.uk
The White Company www.thewhitecompany.com
£10.00
£39.99
Agate Cheese board
£68.00
Anthropologie www.anthropologie.com
Moon & stars luxury crackers
£50.00
Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk
Xmas ribbon
£12.50
Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk
Eco-friendly gift wrapping
From £10.00
The Fabric Wrapping Co. www.fabricwrappingco.com
Winter candle
£20.00
The White Company www.thewhitecompany.com
cherubsmagazine.com
BEAUTY
Winter Glow With Elena @els_makeup_box
As 2020 draws us nearer to shorter days and colder nights, we have put together a collection of items that is a must have in the make up bag, for that all important ’winter glow’.
Another staple for the makeup bag! This little jumbo stick can be used on the eyes, cheeks and lips. Use under liquid blush, over or under foundation. Perfect for those rush-rush mornings. Nars
£30.00
This amazing eye-smoothing cream does exactly what it says on the box. It tightens the delicate skin around the eye contours while revealing a brighter more youthful look. Also comes with a rose gold massager to target every corner of the eye contours.
Cult Beauty www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Eye SmoothTM
£70.00
Monat www.monatglobal.com
This eye palette contains 35 shades to create a bespoke look. From fiery oranges to warm browns, these colours are guaranteed to turn heads. 3502 Second Nature Artistry Palette
£24.00
Morphe www.uk.morphe.com
For those who find their mascara transfers onto their skin, fret no more. This mascara shield will stop any mascara transfer and costs a couple of quid only: bargain! MASCARA & SHADOW SHIELD
£2.25
Elf elfcosmetics.co.uk 16 | Cherubs Magazine
Give your skin the glow it deserves during this season. Using this iconic item, sweep the balm across the high points on the face and use your finger pad to blend into the skin. You’ll look like you’ve just stepped out of the yoga studio; fresh and dewy. Becca
£24.00
Cult Beauty www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Find the perfect gift this s a m t s i r h C Thank you for shopping small Shop now at tailormadeliving.co.uk
STYLE
Festive Dressing Keeping it cosy this festive season with ‘waist-up’ dressing for all those Zoom calls we’ll be having, but making sure there’s still some glitz ‘n’ glam to keep us in the festive spirit.
Sheepers slippers
£35.00
Sheepers www.sheepers.co.uk
Diamonte hair clips
£12.80
Debenhams www.debenhams.com
Animal print cashmere joggers
£69.00
Mint Velvet www.mintvelvet.co.uk
Statement link necklace
£750.00
Monica Vinader www.monicavinader.com
Metallic sneaker
£110.00
Veja www.net-a-porter.com
18 | Cherubs Magazine
Monica Vinader
STYLE
Appropriate Festive dressing for the cosy season Metallic thread cardigan
£25.99
Zara www.zara.com
Embellished side joggers
£25.00
Mint Velvet www.mintvelvet.co.uk
Silk cami Embellished jogger
£69.50
Anthropologie www.anthropologie.com
£48.00
Boden www.boden.co.uk
Padded leather sandals
£85.00
& Other stories www.stories.com
Instagram: @tailormadelivingstore Website: www.tailormadeliving.co.uk cherubsmagazine.com
Cherubs Magazine | 19
Have a very merry green Christmas SUSTAINABILITY
Karen Maurice, loves clothes, good design and her three children. She can be found at n4mummy.com or daily on Instagram @n4mummy.
Ho ho ho! There’s no denying it’ll be a different type of Christmas this year. One that, as as a parent, I know we’re all going to want to try and make extra special for our kids. Now, most of the time my children wear lots of hand-me-downs. But I use Christmas as an excuse to buy them a couple of lovely garments and, in the spirit of peace and goodwill to all, I always try to buy from OR shop with independent brands who value people and the planet. So, here are a few places I’ll be looking at for sustainable and ethically made clothes this Christmas.
Handmade by local mum Jenny who owns Grizzli Bear, these are items to treasure and use for years to come. The crowns have cotton tape sewn to the ends, so you can adjust the size and they’ll fit everyone. I’ve already bought mine and plan to use them in homemade Christmas crackers.
Twas the night before Christmas On Christmas Eve Father Christmas needs his mince pie and sherry. And kids just need a vivid imagination and an old sock. But if you’re after some Christmas pyjamas, then look no further than The Bright Company My son, pictured, is wearing the Slim Jyms Star Christmas Special and my daughter and their muslin PJs. Ethically made in Portugal, they’re playful, unisex and seriously comfy. Plus, if you’re into matching they have adult versions too. Or if traditional is more your style, Frugi have organic cotton reindeer pyjamas that can be personalised. As for keeping toes toasty and warm, invest in a pair of eco slippers. Many slippers available on the High Street are made from polyester, meaning they are likely to be around for hundreds of years after your little one has grown out of them.
Christmas stocking and crown by Grizzli Bear
Pyjamas by The Bright Company
However, there are other options which are cosy and biodegradable. Like these beautiful, embroidered ballerina-style slippers from Onaie. They’re made from felted wool by artisans in the Polish Highlands. Alternatively, there are these gorgeous, embroidered booties from The Small Home. Handmade by artisans from Sheepskin, each pair is unique. Both these brands do adult versions of the slippers too. Bring a little joy to Christmas with a personalised Christmas stocking or even some reusable Christmas crowns!
Gift wrapped by The Fabric Wrapping Co.
20 | Cherubs Magazine
Booties by The Small Home
Ballerina slippers by Onaie
SUSTAINABILITY It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas Dressing up on Christmas Day has always been a thing for me, even in the days when dressing up meant styling my new shell suit! But today, there are so many incredible sustainable kids brands to buy beautiful clothing from. And you don’t have to buy something new. For incredible vintage dresses, head to Wolf & Mable. My six-year-old chose their fab 80s bright and bold penguin star dress. There was also a wonderful selection of romantic florals and of course some Laura Ashley. If your style is a little more bohemian, then head to Apolina for their gorgeous, embroidered dresses.
Apolina
Another favourite is Pigeon and the Wolf, who hand make beautiful pinafore dresses and dungarees.
The Bonnie Mob
Glow
Tis the season to be Jolly After too many sweets, Christmas cake, mulled wine and turkey we’ll all need to get out for a walk on Boxing Day. Wrap up warm in Little Green Radicals Fairly traded, organic cotton sherpa hats and gloves. Or glow, quite literally, with Glow’s handmade snoods that have a light reflective yarn running through them. Each item is made by BAMER women from low socioeconomic backgrounds who are paid a London wage for their work. If you need to battle the weather, try Muddy Puddles 3-in-1 Scampsuit. It’s an all-in-one that is waterproof and warm, plus you can unzip the snuggly fleece layer to wear it on its own. And this year they’ve made the outer layer from recycled fabric. Genius!
Little Green Radicals
This is certainly going to be a year that we will all remember, so I wish you and your little ones a very merry Christmas.
Pigeon and the Wolf
Or if it’s a proper knitted jumper you’re after, have a look at The Faraway Gang. Their cosy, colorful fairisle knits are made in the UK from 100% extra fine merino wool, and the jumpers are itch-free – just ask my son. Alternatively, look at The Bonnie Mob, who have some unbelievably cute deer jacquard knits. The children’s shoes all come from Bobux, who are the only child shoe brand that makes shoes I would wear. My son’s desert arctic boots are lined with breathable merino fleece and a lambswool collar and are so Christmassy. cherubsmagazine.com
Wolf & Mable dress, The Faraway Gang jumper and Bodux shoes
Cherubs Magazine | 21
SUSTAINABILITY
Subscribing to sustainability: going green with Graceful Changes Graceful Changes encourages families to think twice about buying baby clothes Small, ethical and environmentally conscious, Graceful Changes is taking on the world of baby clothing, one bundle of joy at a time. Established to help reduce waste and save parents time and money, the service offers tiered subscriptions, which see a delivery of all the clothes and wearable bits and bobs you need for your baby or toddler. The twist? Once you no longer need the pieces, you send them back for someone else to rent, drastically reducing the carbon footprint that would come from purchasing everything new, but also ensuring you don’t have drawers brimming with unused babygros! For £30 a month (including postage), Graceful Changes members will receive everything they need to keep little one clothed, with essentials including vests and cardigans, leggings and onesies, offered up next to special occasion outfits and seasonal wear.
Catering from newborn up to three years, the signature package (£30) includes 15 items which can be chosen from the online inventory, meaning no need to compromise on what you want or need. Even better, when items are no longer required, due to those pesky middle of the night growth spurts, a new selection will be sent out and the old can just be returned, making sure you are never caught short (literally)!
Sharing why she launched Graceful Changes, founder Josefa Buckland, says:
Knowing that all parents and babies are different, for those that need just a little top up here and there, the Graceful Changes mini package offers five pieces of clothing for just £12.50 per month, with the ability to add additional items on for just £2 each. Gift cards are also available and make the perfect little presents.
“At Graceful Changes we strive to make sustainable and environmentally choices easier to help save a parents time and hassle. Our bundles are filled with all the things you could need, and when you don’t need them any more, we welcome them back with open arms!”
Best of all, there is no minimum subscription, no membership fee and the monthly cost includes cover for wear and tear. Each bundle contains a selection of new and preloved items, but all in great condition.
“The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world and is coming under increasing scrutiny. Our service aims todecrease the number of new items that need to be manufactured in the first place, helping to reduce textiles going to landfill.
Expertly curated, the clothing is all from parent-loved, organic brands such as Kite, Pigeon, Piccalilly, Toby Tiger, Frugi and Little Green Radicals. In keeping with the Graceful Changes ethos, brands stocked all comply with the highest ethical and environmental standards.
For more information on Graceful Changes visit www.gracefulchanges.co 22 | Cherubs Magazine
HOME - ADVERTISING FEATURE
Top tips from KCM Installations Kcm Installations is a family run business that was founded in 2015 when husband and wife put their key skills together to form a company that are passionate about safety in the home and work place.
KCM Rear-02.pdf
A safer Christmas
1
12/10/2020
19:31
Electrical Garden Services
1. When purchasing Christmas tree lights, Always ensure the British safety stamp is on the box. 2. Invest in a fire resistant tree 3. Make sure you only purchase LED lights. These do not get hot and save you money.
Power to all Out Houses or Shed Installation of Network Points Water Fountain Installation
KCM Front-06.pdf
1
12/10/2020
Outdoor Wall Sockets
19:31
LED Lights C
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Spike Lights CCTV Cameras LED Security Lights
CY
CMY
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Do you need a Local, Professional & Reliable
ELECTRICIAN C
Full Rewires Smoke and Heat Detectors Carbon Monoxide Detector Ring Doorbell Hard Wired Kitchen Lights to IP Standard Under Cabinet Lights USB Wall Sockets Install Dimmer Switches Bathroom Lights to IP Standard Bathroom Shaving Points Led Spotlights Anywhere in your House Chandeliers or Pendants Installation Renovations of Fixtures of Dimmers and Faceplates for Wall Sockets
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Contact Christy 07852 937 670
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ALL OF OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED FOR 12 MONTHS WE ARE COVID-19 SECURE
DBS Checked
Contact Christy 07852 937 670
ÂŁ10mil Public Liability
Saving you money on facebook: website:electricity bill your google: www.facebook.com/kcmInstallationsLtd/ www.kcminstallations.com
https://g.page/kcm-installations?share
1. Leave clothes to dry on hangers and only put in tumble dryer for the last 20 mins when they are damp not wet. 2. A point that is raised often, only boil the water in your kettle that is needed. 3. Replace light pendants and spotlights with only LED, they are extremely low at drawing the electrirty . 4. Invest in a dimmer switch , this will ensure the correct light ambience and save you money. 5. And finally, a safety tip. Have a floodlight installed at the front and rear of your property. Please make sure that it has a sensor and timer.
facebook: www.facebook.com/kcmInstallationsLtd/ website: www.kcminstallations.com google: https://g.page/kcm-installations?share
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Cherubs Magazine | 23
READING
Cherubs loves
Books
Recommended by Pickled Pepper Books
Babies & Toddlers Baby loves Earth: An ABC of Our Planet
By Jennifer Eckford & Teresa Bellon Part of a conscious new series of board books introducing babies to trends that matter. A is for Atmosphere, C is for Conservation and G is for Green in this ABC book, appealingly designed to teach the youngest children how to enjoy and protect our planet.
Where Are You Tiger?
By DK Go on a journey with little one to track down the rarely sighted tiger. You may even meet some other animals along the way. Recyclable and plastic-free.
A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes and Poems
By Frann Preston-Gannon 101 nursery rhymes, poems and songs to keep you all entertained well beyond Christmas.
24 | Cherubs Magazine
Early years
Honey For You, Honey For Me
By Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell Featuring familiar and forgotten rhymes and illustration, this is sure to be a hit with the whole family!
READING
Older children The books listed here will be perfect for children aged 8-12 years. Of course, children are individuals so you can always go a bit younger or a bit older. The publishing this year has been led by the pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement and a growing desire for us to talk to children about what is happening around them.
Timelines From Black History
By DK and Mireille Harper Stacked with facts and a visually vibrant, accessible hive of information on the people and the issues that have shaped Black history. It’s an essential book for every child’s shelf.
Kay’s Anatomy
Slow Down
By Adam Kay Adam Kay manages to teach our kids biology without them even knowing!
Book by Rachel Williams Discover 50 nature stories. Helping carers and children to appreciate the magical transformations right in front of us. This is the perfect book for encouraging us all to go outside and explore.
The Book Of Hopes
By Katherine Rundell Katherine contacted author and illustrator friends during lockdown to contribute to this wonderful anthology. These stories show that imagination can be a shelter, provide hope, make us laugh, smile and help us to see some light - much needed! With 133 contributions children will revisit this book time and time again.
10 Middle Ln, Crouch End, London N8 8PL 020 3632 0823 • www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk cherubsmagazine.com
Cherubs Magazine | 25
EDUCATION - ADVERTISING FEATURE
Mount House is a small independent school in Barnet, North London offering a highly nurturing environment to learn and develop. With a maximum of sixty pupils in each year group, it gives every student a chance to participate and shine in a whole range of academic and co-curricular areas. In September 2020 our new Head Mrs Richardson joined Mount House from her previous role as Deputy Head of the Perse School in Cambridge. As well as making enhancements to the academic curriculum and co-curricular programmes, Mrs Richardson is due to announce exciting plans for the development of the school site including new sport, music, science and outdoor learning facilities, some elements of which will be ready for the start of the academic year in September 2021.
26 | Cherubs Magazine
The Mount House school building is a stunning Georgian house set in a green and leafy corner of London opposite Hadley Common. Offering a countryside feel whilst still being close to train and tube stations is a really beneficial aspect of the school’s location. The rare combination of being a small-scale, relaxing campus close to central London ensures our students gain confidence whilst realising all the incredible opportunities the city has to offer. Education has been the main purpose of this beautiful building and its grounds since 1940 when Mount House became the Architectural Association School during the war and subsequently St Martha’s Catholic Girls School. In 2017 the transition to co-education was implemented and Mount House School was established. From
September 2022 Mount House will be fully co-educational. Pastoral care is truly exceptional at Mount House. Central in delivering that care are tutors working with small groups of students, enhanced by a supportive and enjoyably competitive House system where all students participate. Art, music and sports all play an important part alongside the academic focus and we place great emphasis on the ‘all-round’ education of our students. A ‘small is beautiful’ ethos is the magic ingredient at Mount House, where every student is well known and supported to reach their true potential.
DISCOVER
MOUNT HOUSE
We are a small, nurturing, co-educational independent school in Barnet where every pupil thrives. Discover how we inspire success by joining one of our virtual open mornings.
• Small class sizes • Exciting co-curricular programme • Excellent all-round education
Contact us to find out more: Email admissions@mounthouse.org.uk or call 0208 449 6889 Camlet Way, Hadley Wood EN4 0NJ
MEET OUR NEW HEAD MRS RICHARDSON Book a live 1:1 meeting
EDUCATION ADVERTISING FEATURE
A certain choice in uncertain times Choosing the right school for your daughter is an even more important decision in these unusual times. Knowing that your child will receive an engaging, robust and complete education in a safe environment is something you can be sure of if you choose PGHS. Number one in the Sunday Times league table for small independent schools, we welcome girls with the desire and potential to succeed in our diverse, aspirational and supportive school, where small class sizes are the norm and all pupils are known as individuals.
Remote Learning
Our remote learning programme allowed teaching and learning to continue seamlessly throughout the period of school closure, meaning that our pupils, from Nursery to Year 11, completed the expected curriculum for their academic year in all subjects. Live lessons and interaction with teachers kept staff-pupil relationships strong and ensured that pupils maintained their positive and determined attitudes towards their studies.
Pastoral Care
The pastoral care and wellbeing of our pupils is a priority at PGHS. We know every child as an individual and every member of staff receives training in supporting pupils pastorally as well as academically. This high level of care and attention is maintained whether physically in School or working from home; pupils are engaged in daily form time sessions, one-to-one and small group
meetings with teachers, regular assemblies, and fun whole-school challenges and competitions.
Diversity
PGHS has always celebrated diversity and is proud of the multicultural make-up of our pupil-body. Last term, seminars with our outgoing Year 11 pupils replaced study leave and the Psychology, Philosophy and History groups have left a new Diversity Society as their legacy. Passionate about equality and following the School’s motto, By Love Serve One Another, it builds on the recent Black Lives Matter campaigns to ensure that PGHS will continue to be a welcoming and inclusive school.
The Future
We are confident that whether in School or at home, all our pupils will have access to a fantastic education where they can realise their potential academically and personally. If you are interested in becoming a part of the PGHS family, please visit our Virtual Open Day page on our website at www.pghs.co.uk to listen to our Headmistress and teaching staff talk about what PGHS can offer your daughter in this very special ‘all through’ school community. The deadline for all registration for September 2021 entry is 31st December 2020. You can also check the latest availability for school places for immediate entry by calling Admissions on 020 8886 1135 or emailing office@pghs.co.uk.
NUMBER ONE in The Sunday Times League Table for Small Schools WINCHMORE HILL
VISIT US VIRTUALLY TO: ● Listen to our Headmistress, staff, parents and pupils ● View video tours of the Nursery, Lower and Senior School ● Explore our interactive map and discover our excellent facilities ● Read our frequently asked questions ● Register your daughter for September 2021 entry OUTSTANDING GCSE RESULTS - A*/9/8 - 66% and A*/9 to A/7- 87%
www.pghs.co.uk/virtual-open-day
Number one in The Sunday Times league 104 Hoppers Road, London N21 3LJ table for Tel: 020 8886 1135 www.pghs.co.uk small schools Email:office@pghs.co.uk
28 | Cherubs Magazine
Puddle Ducks @ Kidz Escape is a brand new nursery for children from 6 months to 5 years old in North Finchley. We are part of a team with over 15 years experience in childcare. Providing a home from home environment, learning through play and keeping the children excited and challenged. We offer nutritious home cooked meals, indoor and outdoor areas including our awesome roof garden! We provide high quality care for all ages and children meeting all individual needs.
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EDUCATION - ADVERTISING FEATURE
The Great Escape North London’s newest school takes a freeing approach to educating our future generation during a pandemic
As we continue to navigate the 2020 academic year around COVID-19, pleased to see our children back in school and learning but fearful of the underlying threat, north London’s brand-new Nursery and Pre-Prep School is thriving despite the uncertain circumstances. North Bridge House Nursery and Pre-Prep West Hampstead opened this September and has been innovatively designed to allow continuous provision of the curriculum outdoors, using sustainable products wherever possible and combining 3D technology with multi-sensory play space to transform children’s learning environment. The ‘Imaginarium’ is an immersive space that transports children to the very place they are learning about - whether that be a tropical rainforest or a railway station.
While this state-of-the-art facility inspires a genuine love of learning from the outset of children’s education, the outdoor play area is a hugely beneficial teaching environment. Outdoor learning may have been embedded into the curriculum long before the current pandemic at North Bridge House, however, it comes with a newfound appreciation since the Government outlined how transmission of the Coronavirus is significantly lower in outdoor spaces. “While we have always shaped our provision around the outdoors being fundamental to growth and development in the Early Years - running everything from science and minibeasts clubs to an annual petting zoo in our playgrounds - staff have embraced being able to collapse the timetable and take any lesson outside with the sheltered extension directly over the threshold,”
www.northbridgehouse.com 30 | Cherubs Magazine
says Executive McLelland.
Headteacher,
Christine
Building on the NBH group’s established Early Years and Key Stage 1 expertise, Christine has designed the new West Hampstead campus to take children beyond the conventional and physical constraints of the classroom and into the natural environment, where they are stimulated through all kinds of sensory, practical, and social experiences – including growing their own vegetables and tending to school pets. “We want to be as organic as possible and to provide the children with as many unique opportunities as possible in this central London location,” concludes Head of School Eilish Sleator.
North Bridge House
Apply by 27 No v for 2021 entry.
Specialist expertise at every school stage, helping each individual to find and realise their true academic and personal potential. NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS
NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS
PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 7 - 13 YEARS
SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS
SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS
Enquire now on 020 7428 1520 or visit northbridgehouse.com to book a virtual tour
EDUCATION
“
32 | Cherubs Magazine
Pure Imagination By Aimee Hart
EDUCATION Let’s imagine. Close your eyes and take yourself to a calm place, a place where you feel happy and content. Where did you go? A tropical paradise… a fruitful meadow… outer space? Wherever you went you used a combination of previous knowledge and a handful of imagination. These two key concepts go hand in hand, in and out of the classroom. Learning needs to happen but in order for knowledge to truly embed in a child’s mind there must be a form of imagination. At night we all dream, some may remember dreams vividly, others may remember fragments. When we dream a third concept comes into play. Dreams are a mixture of knowledge of the world, memories from your past and imagination. These three concepts form a cycle which is also the system of learning. The more children know and experience, the greater their imagination becomes, leading them to want to know more and adapt their imagination accordingly. It is interesting as a teacher to watch how children play and interact with inanimate objects. Give a child a box and it will be transformed into something magical, something dynamic, something logical. In order for this to happen, children need experiences in their lives to begin this cycle of learning. But how, as parents, do we ‘teach’ imagination? Well the simple answer is: we cannot teach, we must model. Modelling imagination is something we parents do every single day, most of the time without even realising it. The simple act of talking through the day’s plans or talking your way through packing your bag builds imagination. “So, once we’re in the car we’ll drive to the farm, hopefully we’ll see some sheep and we can eat our picnic. Hopefully the sun will stay out and we’ll have so much fun!” As you are talking they are imagining (as best they can with their knowledge) the day ahead. “Car, animals, sandwiches, laughing, sunshine”. Fragments of their imagination may be blank or have question marks around it but they are imagining as much as they can. This day will have a double imprint on their minds – one they had imagined beforehand and then one from their real memory. This will then sink in and be a base for future role play. Modelling life events with toys or siblings such as: going to the dentist or the first day of school, help lay the imaginative foundations for knowledge building, and more importantly anxiety relieving. Why is this concept so important and why have I rambled about it for so long? It isn’t just a tool for playtime, it is so much more than that. Imaginative play:
• builds children’s character and personality • develops language and key communication skills • helps to relieve anxiety about things that have happened or may happen
• can support critical thinking and problem solving • allows children to connect with others. So, when you walk into a nursery or reception class and notice that most of the children are in dress up, talking with a strange accent or seem to be in another world, take a moment to wonder what sort of scenes are playing out in their minds, what imaginative arena are they in. When children are able to live in the abstract, fantasy world they then find it easier and more natural to move this into the written world. Meaning their rich imagination from play forms the core foundations of their writing, reading and understanding of the world around them.
Here are my top tips for modelling imagination...
1. Collect or invest in props Cheap objects or things you may have laying around that can replicate a variety of experiences or give them a starting point to play. Kitchen items, an old phone, note pads, old hats and scarves. The list is endless! If you have used it at some point during your child’s life then they will probably be able to role play with it.
2. Let them lead play Most children just want someone to boss around. Allow them to tell you what they want you to act as in their little scenarios. Some children may even tell you what to say! Make suggestions to improve the craziness of the pretend and you’ll be on to a winner.
3. Remind them of fun times “Remember when we went to the cafe last week and had chocolate cake. Let’s pretend we’re there. You are the waitress.” Giving children specific roles from their past experiences helps to broaden their vocabulary and use words or phrases they may not use regularly.
4. Recycle or junk model You may think “What is this?!” when your child hands you an egg carton with glitter and pasta thrown up all over it… but it was born from their imagination (think Forky from Toy Story). So, before you throw the rubbish in the recycling, give it a few day in a junk modelling box and see what wonders are built.
5. Give them a voice Using teddies, dollies or finger puppets lets children talk about things they may find easier coming from a toy. Sometimes children open up about anxieties through play and passing the voice to their teddy makes this easier. The biggest and easiest tip to support imagination building is reading. Books, books and more books. The bigger the variety the deeper the imagination will build. How do children know what aliens wearing underpants look like? Claire Freedman will tell you. What about that well known character with knobbly knees and turn out toes? I’m sure Julia Donalson can introduce you to the Gruffalo. Or how about a family adventure to find a grizzly character? Michael Rosen can take you on a bear hunt. Every story book is filled with images, vocabulary and plotlines to help give children’s minds a new adventure. So if you turn your living room into a pirate ship, find treasure in the garden or simply build a fort from blankets and cushions, there are no wrong answers when supporting children’s imagination, everything is worth a shot and every moment of play will take them somewhere new. Go along for the ride, I promise they want you right there!
www.myevelynandme.com cherubsmagazine.com
Cherubs Magazine | 33
BROOMFIELD SCHOOL
Want to find out more about your local Secondary School? join us at one of our VIRTUAL ROADSHOW EVENTS BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW FOR
Tuesday's 15th December 2020, 12th January, 9th February and 2nd March 2021 at 6pm Book now at - www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk/roadshow A SCHOOL FOR OUR COMMUNITY
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Broomfield Sch Enfield
Wilmer Way, N14 7HY
Broomfield School
We’re delighted to invite you to
Action for Children’s
Starry Night Join us for Christmas carols, sparkling entertainment and festive cheer on
Tuesday 8 December 2020 A virtual carol concert bringing the magic of Christmas into your home. For most of us, the festive season is a happy time. But there are children all over the UK who face a Christmas without food, warmth or love. We’re working hard to change this – and we need your support. Action for Children’s Starry Night will feature live musical performances, classic carols and readings from some very special guests.
Join us and support the thousands of children and young people who face Christmas without a hot meal, a present or a safe place to sleep.
Part of our Secret Santa appeal. iamsanta.org.uk
WELLBEING
5
Reasons why Pilates should be on your list of priorities By Mary Huckle
There is still a misconception that the only way you can reach an acceptable level of fitness is to thrash your body with anything that will make you hot, sweaty and knackered. I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “train hard or go home.” The bad news is that there is an element of truth in that saying.
Variety is not only the spice of life but diversifying your training methods will not only keep you mobile and fully functional, but injury free as well. So, we’ve established that a varied exercise routine is beneficial, but which activities should we be doing?
However, there is a ‘but’. If you were to consistently and frequently engage in the same exercise, one or all the following could happen. You run the risk of over-training, of injury or you could unknowingly be creating imbalances and misalignments in your body. For example, a golfer may develop back issues because of the continued swing of the golf club to one side or an avid bodybuilder may bulk up to the point where he or she might lose their flexibility.
The answer is any that complement each other, work the entire body and create balance. A good example would be to complement running with yoga. Running is a brilliant cardiovascular exercise which primarily works the legs, but the repetitive nature could cause muscle imbalances, such as tight and over-lengthened hamstrings. Yoga on the other hand, improves flexibility, range of movement through the joints and encourages symmetry throughout the body.
Our bodies are designed to move, but the trick is to move them in various ways.
This brings me onto why I advocate Pilates. Like yoga, it’s a mind-body discipline
36 | Cherubs Magazine
that encompasses controlled breath and a whole-body approach. It works with you, and over time, will create a stronger version of yourself. It gifts you with body awareness and the why and the how of body movement. This is the perfect mindbody connection. I can already sense your excitement and how you can’t wait to sign up to the nearest Pilates class, but before you do that, let me clarify something. Pilates will not necessarily help you lose weight, and neither will it give you a six-pack. However, a sensible diet, cardiovascular exercise to raise your pulse coupled with resistance training might very well have that effect. Ultimately, Pilates will make you a whole lot stronger, better at any other exercise you do, and it will address any postural issues, all without you realising, just with the guidance of a good Pilates teacher.
WELLBEING
Here are the five main reasons why I think Pilates should be in your life.
1. There is way too much stress in our lives There is no better way to counteract the cortisol effects than with a mindful approach to our exercise. The breath element in Pilates induces a state of relaxation exactly where and when it’s needed, allowing any tension to disperse whilst performing the core strengthening exercises.
2. It will revolutionise the way you exercise When you first try Pilates, you might wonder why you’re not required to move quickly and work up a sweat. This is because Pilates is slow, in fact the slower you perform the exercises, the more effective they are. Pilates is about the breath, controlled smooth movements and technique.
cherubsmagazine.com
It’s not about momentum or sloppy form. You engage and stabilise the core on the exhale while moving into the exercise.
3. You’ll wish you’d discovered it a lot sooner By the time most people try out their first class, it’s because their GP, chiropractor or physio has recommended it to them, which usually means they have sustained an injury, have issues with their back or have other postural concerns. Suffice to say that prevention is better than cure, so if you want to maintain a healthy spine, take up regular Pilates as soon as possible, before you actually need it.
4. You can do it every day Pilates is low-impact but this doesn’t mean that it’s ineffective. The beauty of the so-called ‘intelligent exercise’ is that you can practice it till
the cows come home without over-training your body, but it’s intense enough to make positive differences to your wellbeing. I highly recommend doing at least two hourly sessions per week but even one weekly class will yield benefits. Joseph Pilates, the founder, used to say: “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body.”
5. There are too many benefits I teach the STOTT method and in the words of the provider, it incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. STOTT Pilates exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints. There are also more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities.
Here’s a benefits:
summary
of
the
• leaner muscles • improves postural problems • increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility • helps prevent Injury • enhances functional fitness, ease of movement • balances strength & flexibility • heightens body awareness • no-impact, easy on the joints • can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes • complements other methods of exercise • improves performance in sports (running, golf, skiing et cetera.) • improves balance, coordination and circulation. If you’d like more information about Mary’s classes or private tuition, please email her at maryhuckle@gmail.com breakthroughfitness.co.uk Instagram: @Maryhuckle Facebook @breakthroughfitness1 Twitter @mary_huckle
Cherubs Magazine | 37
BEAT THE BURN
INTENSE ZONES THERE’S INTENSE, THEN THERE’S BLAZE. It’s new, it’s unique, like nothing you’ve experienced. A test of your strength, stamina and willpower, you’ll run, lift and fight. Blaze will push you to your limit and beyond. An overload of light, sound and energy will power you through your workout. Our instructors will challenge, push and support you, to achieve results you never thought possible. A Myzone heart-rate belt will track your performance every step of the way. With your heart rate streamed on digital screens, you’ll work your body at just the right intensity to get the most from your workout. Get ready to feel the burn and join the tribe #Blazetribe
HEALTH
The impact on our children’s mental health during Covid-19 by Marilena Andreou The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown has brought a huge sense of anxiety and stress to children and young people worldwide. Now young people are faced with returning back to some sort of ‘normality’, with schools and colleges adhering to new rules and enormous changes to their lives. The unpredictability around the globe continues and young people are struggling to adapt to the new way of life. For some people, even the regular government announcements reinforces the unpredictability and the notion that things could change again at any moment, including further lockdowns and what implications that could have.
If you have answered yes to any of those or you have noticed other symptoms not listed above, it could indicate that the young person is experiencing some form of anxiety.
4. Block or reduce reading social media and posts about Covid-19 Constantly reading and hearing about Covid-19 can be detrimental to one’s mental health.
Below are seven coping strategies for worry and anxiety you can share with children.
5. Model brave behaviour Parents and guardians need to understand their own anxieties and contain them when in the company of their children or relatives. It is important they appear brave, even though they might not feel that way.
We all have different belief systems and feelings, while some young people might be excited about being back at school or college, others might be angry, anxious or upset about it. Some parents, guardians or children might even have mixed feelings about it.
2. Worry time Set aside 10 to 15 minutes every day to think about your worries and discuss them (if needed) with another person you can trust. If you find yourself worrying outside of this period of time, write it down, postpone your worries by focusing your attention on other tasks and return to the worries during worry time.
Do you ever notice that your child or relative displays symptoms such as: feeling frightened to leave the house, avoiding social interactions, not wanting to play their favourite game, increased heart rate, excessive sweating or relentless worrying about the future?
1. Normalising the worry Feeling nervous, anxious and worried at times is a normal human response. It is important for the parent or guardian to normalise the worry with children and young people.
3. Simple breathing exercise Take a slow deep breath and hold it for five seconds. Breathe out slowly, counting to five, breathe in again and repeat the process. As you breathe focus on expelling all of the air in your lungs.
6. Challenge unhelpful thoughts Negative thoughts can evoke certain emotions such as anxiety. Replace thoughts with more balanced ones. For example, change “I can’t cope with these symptoms of heart racing and sweating,” to “the symptoms that I am experiencing are part of anxiety and the fight or flight response and are not harmful, and it will pass like it did last time.” 7. Self-care Try to play games, bake, go for walks, play football, listen to music, draw or paint and so on. By learning to help ourselves we can also support each other or notice when others need help during such difficult times.
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist www.inspiring-minds-therapy.co.uk 40 | Cherubs Magazine
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HEALTH
The Conception Plan: What to eat by Dr Larisa Corda
Dr Larisa Corda is an obstetrician, gynaecologist and Fertility expert. For more details please visit www.drlarisacorda.com When it comes to trying for a baby, most people presume that there’s little they can do to influence the process. Yet your diet, is possibly the most important way you can have an impact on this. You are literally what you eat. So if you eat food high in unhealthy fat, processed and full of sugar and salt, additives and flavourings, can you imagine the consequences that has on not just your health, but the health of any children that are born? Recent studies are beginning to show that what we put into our bodies, including food, is a major contributor to influencing the genetic blueprint of your baby and switching certain genes on and off, potentially predisposing your child to health problems later in life. I find these epigenetic studies fascinating and the possibility that our food choices can have transgenerational effects 42 | Cherubs Magazine
is even more reason to become savvy and conscientious about what you eat. The first thing to say is that you want to eat as cleanly as you can. This means eating food that isn’t processed or overcooked, but instead is nutritionally dense and as close to its natural state as possible. A clean diet will also help to reduce inflammation in your body , especially if you have inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovaries. Refined sugar is an inflammatory agent, as is gluten, dairy for an increasing number of people, and additives in processed food. All of these need to be removed or significantly reduced in your diet, or dairy-free versions found which are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Having a diet that is predominantly plant based also means you’re eating lots of healthy fats, that are important for fertility,
and you’re eliminating your exposure to toxins that accumulate the further down the food chain you go. Toxins can have negative effects on fertility. This is why it’s really important to go organic with any meat or products derived from animals, such as milk, to reduce the chance of toxin exposure. The other benefit of clean eating is that you will lose weight or be able to maintain a good healthy BMI. This doesn’t mean depriving yourself, it just means becoming clued up on what is and isn’t good for you, and realising that good food is there to make you feel energised, improve your libido and your motivation; not drain you and make you feel bloated or sluggish. So, let’s get started...
HEALTH • Try
What’s real food? • Fresh vegetables, herbs and fruit, ideally organic and pesticide free.
• Meat, organic and grass fed. • Eggs, organic and free range. • Fish and seafood, sustainably sourced. • Fresh cheese. • Whole milk and yoghurt. • Nuts and seeds. • Grains, properly prepared and whole. • Quinoa and buckwheat. • Healthy fats, such as butter, coconut oil and olive oil.
• Legumes. • Fresh veggie juice, smoothies, herbal teas,
organic coffee (limit to one cup a day!). foods, such as maca powder, acai berries, green powder blends, goji berries, bee pollen and raw cacao powder.
• Super
What’s not real food? • Genetically modified ingredients. • Refined breakfast cereal. • Refined flour. • White sugar. • Artificial preservatives. • Artificial colours and flavours. • Artificial sweetener. • Long life milk. • Vegetable oil. • Stock cubes and gravy that’s
to buy the most natural nutrientdense or colourful versions, that you can. So, replace pale margarine with block butter and pale lettuce with the darker leafier version. You increase the amount of nutrients you deliver to yourself, and you stay fuller for longer. • Switch to organic where you can. It doesn’t have to be everything, but your fruit and veg and any meat you eat, should be as organic as possible. The most heavily contaminated produce are grapes, courgettes, leafy greens, berries and stone fruit, so always try and get organic versions of these. • Eat in season. • Wash your fruit and veg before preparing. • Replace packaged snacks with carrot or apple pieces dipped in nut butter or smashed avocado. Or eat nuts and seeds. • Don’t worry if you have to buy some frozen produce. Frozen veggies are sometimes nutritionally more dense than the fresh versions, so you can use these guilt-free when you need to. • Replace standard white potato with sweet potato or swede or celeriac, which are far healthier. • Replace all white bread, rice and pasta, with wholegrain, brown versions.
Maximising efficiency factory
produced. • Soft drinks. • Chips and snacks in packets. • Synthetic supplements with synthetic coatings.
Some simple switches to make • Move
away from eating packaged food and make it a point to eat fresh produce. • Completely eliminate food that contains synthetic ingredients, flavourings or additives. • Reduce your intake of excess sugar, processed vegetable oils and salt. • Cook and prepare as much food as you can from scratch. • Double or triple your veggie intake. • Reduce your meat consumption, become more veggie/ vegan based, or flexitarian with 90% of your food being based on vegetables and 10% on meat. • Try and share your food with others and relish the process of making things together. • Support local farmers and allotments • Remember, it’s not about a massive overhaul all at once, this is about changing one small thing at a time, that will amount to a lot.
• If you’re preparing a meal, always try and make more or double the batch, as you can save it for a snack later, or eat for lunch the next day. • Prepare more beans, rice, lentils and mash than you need, as you can blend these to make a soup the next day. • If you’re cooking dinner, pop some veggies to roast in the oven at the same time, that you can use later. • Master a couple of staple dishes and get good at preparing them, so that when time is short, you can whip them up fuss-free. • Get all your bits chopped and ready to cook with, so that you have a clear workspace to operate from, which will make you feel calmer and give you a greater sense of purpose. • Plan your meals for the week ahead. • Learn to make homemade stock, which is both delicious and full of amazing nutrients and minerals and can be added to sauces to make them taste even better.
• Create
a cooking circle with friends, where you can take it in turns to cook and share recipe ideas. Also, if you’re all trying for a baby or trying to lose weight, you’ll be each other’s motivation.
A word on supplements: A good multivitamin supplement is important, especially Vitamin D that’s been shown to improve fertility in several studies, and folic acid. However, some people are carriers of a gene mutation MTHFR (7-40%) that they may not realise, which means that they cannot absorb folic acid. Therefore methylfolate is a good safe option that is easily absorbed and a good dose for women is 400 mcg per day or up to 800 mcg per day, especially if you’re overweight. It’s also important to make sure that when you’ve adjusted your diet, you’re also supporting your body in eliminating any excess toxins, so eating a diet rich in fibre, to encourage daily bowel motions, and supporting your gut and uterine natural microbiome, by taking a probiotic daily and eating fermented foods regularly. There are now more studies looking at the role of the microbiome in the womb and how it may impact on implantation as well as the risk of miscarriage. In addition, a probiotic can help to reduce the risk of allergies and asthma developing in babies, especially if they’re born by caesarean section, when they may not have been exposed to the vaginal microflora. If you are on medication for your long term health, please consult your doctor to see if it needs changing before conception, or whether the doses can be minimised, or you can be weaned off. Never make these changes on your own. The reasons for changing your diet and approach to lifestyle in all that you do are multiple. Eating organically and consuming any product you use on yourself or your immediate environment, conscientiously, also helps to look after our planet. Ultimately, this is where we source all life from, so respecting that will inevitably reap rewards for us too and our future generations.
What else can you do? • Try growing your own vegetables. • Shop at local farmers’ markets and local butchers.
• Buy in bulk, as this will work out cheaper in the long run.
cherubsmagazine.com
Photo credit: Bertie Watson
Cherubs Magazine | 43
LIVING
EatHappyFeelGood
Roast pork with caramelised onions and apples Here’s your Sunday roast sorted! The rich savouriness of the pork works so well with the sweet apples that almost melt into a sauce... it really is a delicious combination. And let’s not forget about the crackling! Serve with mash, green vegetables and wholegrain mustard for a tasty family meal.
Ingredients
• 1.5kg to 2kg pork joint. • 4 apples (I used pink lady) • 4 white onions • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 tsp salt • 6 large sprigs fresh thyme • Extra salt for the top of the pork Method
1. Preheat the oven to 200C. 2. Peel the onions and cut into thick slices. 3. Quarter the onions and cut out the bit of core from each quarter. 4. Put the onions, apples, olive oil, salt and thyme in a large ovenproof dish. Mix together. 5. Place the pork joint on top of the apples and onions. It
44 | Cherubs Magazine
should already be scored, if not score using a sharp knife. Then rub salt all over the skin, pressing it into the skin. 6. Put it in the oven and cook at this temperature for 25 minutes. 7. Lower the oven temperature to 180C and cook until cooked though. To calculate the total cooking time, it’s about 30 minutes per pound of pork. It’s cooked when you insert a knife and the juices run completely clear. The top should also be nice and crispy but if not crispy enough, give it 10 to 15 minutes under a hot grill. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. 8. Take the pork out and leave to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. 9. Put the tray back in the oven to caramelise the onions and apples. This can take 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces and how caramelised you want them to be. 10. Serve with mashed potatoes, green veg and wholegrain mustard.
LIVING
Kids breakfast sharing platter Sharing platters have become one of my children’s favourite ways to eat and I love serving their food like this. Not only is it easier for me because they help themselves and have more of the stuff they like, it encourages sharing and communicating. I love watching them chat away, about the food and all sorts of weird and wonderful things in kids minds. This breakfast became a whole experiment about which of the dippers was best. Leo’s winner was the mushroom sausage and Sofia’s the traditional bread soldiers. Another big bonus of serving platters is that they’re a great way for exposure to new foods which is so important in developing a good relationship with food. So put lots of things they enjoy eating and are familiar with and one thing you’d like them to try or they’re learning to love. Even if they only play with that new food, it’s exposure and next time they may take a bite. Lots of fun and goodness, happy little tummies, happy mama!
Green pesto pasta It really doesn’t get easier than this but it’s definitely a family favourite in our home. Full of vegetable goodness, lots of flavour from the pesto and the comfort of pasta... this dinner ticks all the boxes. And if you happen to have any leftovers, it’s a great lunch the next day. I sometimes double up the pesto recipe and freeze a portion for another day. Then I just let it defrost overnight, stir through freshly cooked pasta and I have a delicious healthy meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients (serves 4)
• 500g pasta • 200g broccoli • 200g green beans
Method
Pesto Ingredients
• 2 cups basil • 1 cup baby spinach • 1 cup Parmesan • 2 cloves garlic • Juice of 1/2 lemon • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1/2 cup pine nuts • 1/2 cup pasta water
1. Cook the pasta according to pack institutions. 2. For the last 3 to 5 minutes of cooking, add the vegetables and drain all together. If you like your veg crunchy, cook for less time so put them in 3 minutes before the end of the pasta cooking time. Just before you drain your pasta, take half a cup of pasta water from the pan and blend it with the pesto. 3. While the pasta is cooking, put all the pesto ingredients in a blender and blend until well combined and you have the consistency you want. 4. As soon as you’ve drained the pasta, stir the pesto through it and serve.
Banana baked oats This is a perfect weekend breakfast and we love it for so many reasons. It’s absolutely delicious and full of goodness but feels like such a treat; probably thanks to the caramelised bananas. Really quick and easy to prepare, the hardest part is waiting for it to bake because it makes the kitchen smell so good!
Ingredients (serves 4)
• 3 large bananas • 2 cups jumbo rolled oats • 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp salt • 2 eggs • 2 tsp vanilla • 1 3/4 cup oat milk • 1/3 cup maple syrup • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • optional – 1 tsp light brown sugar • optional – 2 tsp linseeds Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180C. 2. In a large bowl mix the oats, cinnamon, baking powder and salt. 3. In another bowl whisk together the eggs, vanilla, oat milk, maple syrup and olive oil. 4. Pour the liquid mix over the oat mix and stir together. 5. Peel one of the bananas and cut into small pieces. Add this to the oat mix and stir through. 6. Pour into an oven proof dish. 7. Peel the remaining bananas, slice down the middle and gently arrange on top. 8. If using, sprinkle the sugar and linseeds on top. 9. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes till the top is golden brown. 10. If you want it more caramelised you can give it 3 to 4 minutes under a hot grill but keep an eye on it because it burns very easily. 11. Let it cool a little, serve and enjoy.
Instagram: @eathappyfeelgood Website: www.eathappyfeelgood.co.uk Cherubs Magazine | 45
LIVING
It’s all Berry with
Frozen mixed berry yogurt made in an instant. You can start introducing yogurt into a babies diet at around six months. This homemade mixed berry yogurt recipe uses frozen mixed berries and only takes a couple of minutes to make. It’s a great way to add some extra vitamins into your baby’s diet – and tastes amazing. You will never want to buy shop bought fruit yogurts again.
Ingredients
• 250g frozen mixed berries • 250g plain Greek yogurt
46 | Cherubs Magazine
Method
1. Add the mixed berries and yogurt to a blender or food processor. 2. Blend for 20 to 30 seconds until you have a smooth texture. 3. Serve and enjoy!
LIVING
ious.com www.daddelic us io @daddelic
Mixed berry, coconut and chia seed pudding This mixed berry chia pudding is very quick to make. Blend all of the ingredients and put it in the fridge the night before to work its magic. Chia seeds are packed full of protein, fibre, omega-3, iron, calcium and more. They are an incredible source of goodness for our little ones. Blitzing the ingredients and soaking the seeds in coconut milk overnight allows the seeds to soak up the yummy liquid. It produces a fresh, creamy texture and a delicious yet subtle sweetness. Generally speaking chia seeds are fantastic for babies eight months and older.
Ingredients
• 1 can of coconut milk • 1 cup of frozen/fresh berries (you can use whatever berries you like but I used raspberries and blackberries)
• 1 banana • 1/2 cup of chia seeds
Method
1. Add the coconut milk, berries and banana into a blender and blitz until smooth. 2. Pour the mixture into a bowl and add the chia seeds. Stir until they are fully combined. 3. Cover and put in the fridge overnight. 4. Serve with some fresh berries or granola on top.
Healthy porridge with berry compote My healthy porridge is so rich and creamy, and full of health enhancing goodness. It is such a speedy breakfast. It takes ten minutes and will keep you energised throughout the day thanks to all the incredible metabolism boosting fats, fibre and plant proteins. I added a good dollop of Greek yoghurt with a raspberry and blackberry compote for some extra colour and zing.
Ingredients
• 1 cup rolled oats • 1/4 cup ground flax seed • 1/4 cup ground chia seed • 1 cup water • 1/2 cup coconut milk • Frozen berries of your choice • Greek yoghurt to serve Method
1. Add the oats and ground seeds to a pan with the water and coconut
cherubsmagazine.com
milk and mix together. Cook on a low heat for five minutes stirring every minute until the oats have soaked up the liquid. 2. Add a splash of water to another pan with the frozen (or fresh) berries of your choice. Gently squash some of the berries in the pan and simmer for a couple of minutes letting the sauce thicken to a good consistency. 3. Serve porridge warm with a dollop of yoghurt and the berry sauce.
Cherubs Magazine | 47
LIVING ADVERTISING FEATURE
Why Female Entrepreneurs Invest in Property
Up until recently, the number of female entrepreneurs was low. However, research conducted by HSBC in 2016, indicates that 59% of entrepreneurs under 35 years of age are female. What’s more, the number of UK female entrepreneurs investing in buy-to-let properties has increased. This is evident from research done by RW Invest that revealed an increase of 140% of females searched properties in 2018. So, why the increase? Women are more financially independent than in the past. And they are focused on achieving financial goals. Although the number of women in business is increasing, there is still a pay inequality gap. This means women are seeking ways to boost their income and are using investing to do this. Out of all the various types of investments, buy-to-let properties are seen by women as low-risk, compared to shares, bonds or cryptocurrency.
Real estate and especially, buy-to-let properties can provide a solid investment with strong yields, especially if you have chosen the right property in the right area. An additional benefit of buy-to-let property investments is that they help female entrepreneurs run a successful business or career and raise children, while adding to their financial independence. With the London housing trend seeing more people choosing to rent it is an ideal time for more women to take advantage of the property market. Not only are returns solid depending on the type of property and the location, but there is an increase in rental demand. We recommend speaking to a professional before deciding that buy-to-let properties is your ideal investment. At REKA Property Management, we give our clients the facts about the property industry and focus on getting the best return on your investment.
To find our more call us on 020 3286 6468 or email us at admin@rekaproperty.co.uk
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To find out more information, call us on 020 3286 6468 or email us at lettings@rekaproperty.co.uk and quote “rent my property.” W W W. R E K A P R O P E R T Y. C O . U K
TRAVEL
Experience unadulterated all-inclusive bliss at the brand-new Ikos Andalusia Picture sinking your toes into soft silky sands as the refreshing sea water laps around your ankles and the soothing sound of the rolling waves plays. After months of confinement, we could all use a blissful beach holiday to help us unwind and reinvigorate our spirits. Opening its doors in April 2021, the exclusive Ikos Andalusia will feature sumptuous accommodation, delectable dining options and superb facilities; providing you with everything you need to create unforgettable holiday memories to cherish. Located close to glamorous Marbella on the sun-drenched shores of the Costa del Sol, this incredible all-inclusive resort is the multi-award-winning Ikos brand’s first foray outside of Greece. Just under an hour’s drive from Malaga Airport, you’ll be perfectly placed to experience the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Marbella, before retiring to your stylish retreat, where you’ll want for nothing with the signature Infinite Lifestyle concept.
Sophisticated rooms and suites Ikos Andalusia will offer over 400 contemporary rooms and suites, all with either furnished private balconies, secluded gardens or spacious terraces, where you can relax and admire the magnificent views across the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, the sparkling pools or the beautifully landscaped gardens. Some of the sumptuous suites will also feature impressive private pools. Food is an integral part of any holiday and at the stunning Ikos Andalusia, you’ll be treated to menus created by Michelinstarred chefs, as well as an exciting range of branded international and local spirits, fine wines and expertly-mixed cocktails. Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included as part of your package, as well as tasty snacks and a minibar that’s restocked daily.
Remarkable restaurants and bars The seven exciting restaurants are set in gorgeous locations, each one offering a wealth of tantalising flavours. Amongst the delicious dining options are the finest contemporary Greek flavours at Ouzo, succulent seafood at Fresco, exquisite tastes of Asia and the Orient at Anaya, and phenomenal Provencal-inspired cuisine created by Michelin-starred chef, Anthony Jehanno, at Provence. There are also authentic Spanish dishes complemented by stunning pool and garden views at Olivia, as well as mouth-watering Mediterranean buffets accompanied by a fantastic selection of wines at Flavors. The Infinite Lifestyle Dine Out culinary experience is also part of your all-inclusive plan, so you can head out to some of the very best local restaurants and enjoy an evening of fine local dishes and wonderful wine – all at no extra cost.
50 | Cherubs Magazine
First published on www.travelcounsellors.co.uk
TRAVEL Endless activities and entertainment Whether you want to dive into beautifullydesigned indoor and outdoor pools, bask in the glorious Spanish sunshine at the resort’s exclusive beach area or get involved with leisure activities such as tennis, volleyball, yoga, Pilates or aqua aerobics, you can do it all – or nothing at all – here. There’s exciting evening entertainment With the promise that all your holiday plans to enjoy too, including live music, theatre are in the safest possible hands. shows, movies and exclusive parties. included in your Infinite Lifestyle Remember how easy it used to beAlso to go on holiday? package is the amazing Local Discovery When someone else took care of everything? Travelyou to immerse option, whichAtallows Counsellors we believe this is the yourself only way in to sell the travel local– lifestyle and experience the Andalusian culture with it’s such a personal thing that everybody deserves their a complimentary MINI adventure, dining very own personal expert. at local restaurants, museum visits and a round of golf.
At Travel Counsellors we’re all about you. So if you’re Fun for all the looking for afamily holiday to remember, contact me today. If you’re travelling with the kids, they’re Travel, tailor-made for you,ofwith going to love the brilliant programme fun-filled activities that are on offer in the carefully supervised kids’ and teen’s clubs, including arts and crafts, sports, cooking, water sports and games. The resort’s Crèche, Mini Club and Teen Club are all carefully overseen by fully-qualified professionals from UK-based childcare experts, Worldwide Kids, so you can relax knowing your little ones are in safe hands.
care.
Sublime spa facilities While the kids are having the holiday of a lifetime at one of the amazing clubs, you can head to The Ikos Spa by Anne Semonin Paris for some much-deserved relaxation. A sanctuary of peace and tranquillity, choose from a range of pampering treatments guaranteed to revitalise body, mind and spirit; all in the most luxurious of surroundings. Spa facilities also include an indoor heated pool, thermal suite, fitness studio, and hairdressing and nail salons.
Eda Ayyildiz Travel Counsellor 020 3393 5460 eda.ayyildiz@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.com/eda.ayyildiz
To book your holiday to some of Europe’s luxurious properties, contact your Travel Counsellor Eda Ayyildiz and take advantage of exclusive benefits including financial protection and a 24-hour duty office ready to support you before, during and even after your trip.
LIFE
Born asleep... but alive in our Hearts by Danni Higgins
It’s every expectant parent’s nightmare to be told that your unborn baby isn’t well. We were 20 weeks into the pregnancy with our second child when we discovered that our baby had a rare condition called Ebstein Anomaly, a congenital defect of the heart. Utterly devastated but hopeful, as consultants explained the condition was mild, we continued with the pregnancy and felt positive it would all be ok. Love would get us through.
mix up, surely this couldn’t be happening?! Friday 2 September 2016 marked the day that our lives changed forever. The day that our darling baby’s heart was stopped. I lay on the bed crying, trying with all my might to keep still as my cries turned into uncontrollable sobs, as if I moved, I was told the injection might miss the baby’s heart and cause the baby distress. Thankfully, the injection reached the heart first time and our little warrior slipped away peacefully.
Eight weeks later, following a heart scan at The Fetal Medicine Unit in UCLH, my husband, Chris and I sat waiting, praying, for good news. I’ll never forget the look on the consultant’s face as he walked towards us with the results. Everything seemed to move in slow motion and I instantly knew, it was bad news. Our baby’s heart condition had deteriorated and we were told there was no hope for survival outside of the womb. It was at that moment there, that our world came crashing down around us. All our hope, positivity, strength and courage just seemed to shatter into tiny pieces, as we sat there, broken.
For two days, I had to go home and was bed-bound. I was told to rest. The kicks had now stopped, and our beloved baby lay still inside me. My huge belly that had been growing our little fighter for seven months, still looked the same to the outside world. But inside, it would never be the same. My heart was totally broken. Shattered. A piece of my heart stopped forever at the same time our baby’s did.
A few days later, we were back in the same waiting room. This time though, all hope had gone. We were taken into a side room to sign paperwork and learn about the procedure that was about to happen. A Medical Termination (termination on medical grounds). As I lay on the same bed, I had laid on a few days previous for our scan, I remember thinking that this was all a
Sunday 4 September came. We packed my hospital bag with all of the usuals, the energy drinks, the jelly babies, the dressing gown, the PJs, tiny little baby clothes. But while I needed it for labour, to get me through physically, we knew we wouldn’t be bringing our new-born home. I was induced at Barnet Hospital and after eight hours of the most horrific labour imaginable, I delivered our precious little son, who was born sleeping. He weighed just 3lbs. I was totally under prepared for the silence of the room in that exact moment. Complete silence. No new-born screams.
No congratulations. No euphoria. Just still. Silence. Sadness. Torture. Pain. Heartache. We had the most amazing team of midwives that looked after us at Barnet and Julie Stewart, our bereavement midwife, was our angel in disguise. Our incredible daughter, who was just two at the time, got us through the days, weeks and months that followed. She made us smile on some of our darkest days, she was the sunshine throughout our terrible storm and the three of us stuck together like glue. Our little boy will always be part of our family and he lives inside our hearts forever. A brutally shocking element of our stillbirth was that it all took place merely a stone’s throw from the birthing centre, in a room at the end of the maternity unit. To hear the cries of lovely little new-borns being born constantly throughout the hours that follow such a traumatic delivery of your own, is pure torture. I have set it as my mission to raise money for the labour ward at Barnet Hospital to help with the funding of a separate wing for deliveries such as mine. Please take a look at my Go Fund Me page: www.gofundme.com/create/story/barnetmaternity-hospital-stillborn-support. If there is anyone reading this who is going through a similar experience, I hope you can take comfort in knowing that after every storm comes a rainbow and I promise, the sun will shine bright again.
www.gofundme.com/create/story/barnet-maternity-hospital-stillborn-suport 52 | Cherubs Magazine
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LIFE
Life in Lockdown
The coronavirus lockdown has seen businesses close their doors, park shut their gates and life as we so confidently knew it has become a distant memory. However, for many it has also been the time to re adjust, re focus and seek a new way forward. We caught up with some of our readers and were so inspired by their heart-warming stories, we couldn’t resist sharing them with you… Read their story as they give us an insight into how Covid-19 and lockdown has impacted their lives and businesses and despite the challenges they found the courage and motivation to seek a new way forward. Read their stories.
my husband – who was probably a bit relieved having to look after the other two and avoid his own anxiety which went through the roof each time he got close to the hospital environment, thanks to the fun things this dreadful virus was doing to his mind. I might have freaked out for a few minutes when it was confirmed that partners are not allowed during birth (there was a chance one could get through during the active birth stage, but not encouraged at all.) Then I came to realise I wasn’t going to be alone at all – I had the best gift ready to make my arms full! The baby arrived so quickly I didn’t even have time to see if Justin (my husband) made it home with the kids. They all dropped me at the hospital at 8am and, about one hour later – while he was feeding them breakfast – an emotional FaceTime call confirmed that a healthy happy baby was already ready to leave the hospital and join the noisy tribe.
Aly’s Story Aly Boghici
Blogger @allmumstalk It’s been exactly six months since we reached the first peak of the pandemic and the very moment I became a mum of three. My birth story was supposed to be slightly different, I was so ready for a home delivery, both mentally and physically, but 2020 had different plans for me... How it all began It was 3am on the 20th of April when my more serious contractions started – I was already eight days overdue and let me tell you, the third time round can be a bit of a frustrating wait, but he was finally making 54 | Cherubs Magazine
a move. I was feeling both rather thrilled and anxious about this arrival – a new baby to join our family was a dream, but giving birth to him during a pandemic felt like a bit of a nightmare, especially as it all seemed to run like a bad movie that we hadn’t ever experienced before in our lifetime (except when watching Hollywood movies.) Even then, you couldn’t make this up! Nevertheless, I tried to focus less on the corona madness and more on enjoying my last birthing journey. Except, wait... I was going to have to do this one entirely on my own! Until the labour started I didn’t quite mentally accept that this stage would be without my mum – who was present during my first two deliveries, or without
I’m forever grateful to the amazing NHS staff who are working harder to keep us and our babies safe! I’m so happy I managed to pack my thank you rainbow organic cotton tee from Kindred (all proceeds from selling these t-shirts have been donated to support the NHS charities) and so grateful for all the beautiful support I’ve been given by my wonderful midwife Josie. Seven hours later, on the very same day, we were on our way home. It was an experience that I will never forget and I hope my children will forever tell the tale of how their mummy gave birth to their baby brother, alone, while the world was in a global pandemic. Thinking of all expecting mums and their babies during these uncertain times, all I can say is: “you’ve got this!” We may feel robbed of certain experiences or a bit sad we can’t share them all with our loved ones, but the most important things remain, our resilience, hope for a better future and the safety of our new bundle of joy.
LIFE
Zeleka’s Story Zeleka Nadine Sutherland
Co-founder & Managing Partner BossBaby Decor @bossbabydecor
birthday, baby shower, and gender reveal that the light bulb moment went off in my head.
at
After turning my home into a part-time school for my daughters and going all Marie Kondo on every draw in our house, I finally found the strength to sit down and face reality. After binging on The Home Edit for the third time, a very candid conversation with my best friend made me put my big girl panties on and evaluate my business. As an events business owner, Covid seriously played havoc with my cash flow and family routine, not only during lockdown but with every postponed “not cancelled” wedding that followed (all 32 of them and counting). Rather than chase an industry that for now, in many ways, is on pause, I continued to support my couples. I continued focusing on my surroundings, looking out for trends and observing what was happening with my mini-communities of friends, family and school run mums. It wasn’t until my 12th zoom party in celebration of another cherubsmagazine.com
One thing which lockdown and this pandemic have not been able to curb is our appetites for celebrating the milestones of those little humans we adore so much! I looked back into my archive of events and took out images from all the baby showers and children’s celebrations I had planned, I knew for sure another service-based business was off the cards, so what product could I create that would survive beyond the pandemic? With a natural appetite for wanting to produce experiences which connect visually with my clients. It was a baby shower which I planned two years ago that provided the answer I was looking for, an occasion where a mother-to-be styled mini mannequins in outfits to be worn by her then bump once he arrived into the big wide world. Hence BossBaby Decor was born – a product-based business with beautifully styled unique mannequin centrepieces available to add a new and unforgettable visual experience to any baby-centred occasion from showers to christenings; and that first milestone birthday celebration.
Attending to the needs of my postponed couples while freelancing alongside those all-important family orientated responsibilities (chauffeur, housekeeper, conflict manager et cetera.) launching another business was a little intimidating, even for me. How would I manage it? How would I pay for the additional operating expenses? Another well-timed conversation with my best friend made me realise the answer again lay within my mini-communities, so I began interviewing people in my community for the positions of business partners... and the rest is history. Boss Baby Decor is now open and ready for business and is managed by three mums, seven kids and one newborn baby. One thing a global pandemic has taught me is that we are at our best when faced with the worst. That family, friends and strangers can provide you with the best inspiration without even saying a word. Your best friend, if chosen wisely, bring out the best in you. As mums on our own we juggle so much, but as mums working together, we understand each other’s struggles and sacrifices and, between us, make one complete badass entrepreneur.
Cherubs Magazine | 55
LIFE
Caroline’s Story Caroline Ginty
Headteacher Woodside Primary School On the 23 March 2020 the school fell silent. There was no excitement due to a holiday or sigh of relief from staff about the start of a much needed break. More of a silence of the unknown and a sadness that our children would not be in school with us. This closure had been creeping up on us and, as a school, we had begun to plan for a possible closure as the virus began to spread. The what-ifs were our main conversations for weeks. We heard all updates at the same time as the general public, with few answers being provided to help us to reassure an anxious community. Guidance changed on a near daily basis. In a very short space of time we had to turn our school from face to face teaching to a virtual learning environment. Staff had to master new skills of teaching online – not something we had ever had training for – and work out the best way to reach every child. We rushed through training for staff and planned a smooth as possible transition to the virtual world. Learning was moved onto our website where teachers posted daily challenges for the children along with stories and messages. Although this was a good starting point to our virtual world of learning, it was long winded and teachers struggled to monitor who had participated in activities. Giving feedback on learning was a long and arduous process, but staff undertook to continue to do it. No one knew how long this was going to last for. As it became apparent, through the daily briefings, this was not going to be a short lockdown, we needed to find a system that made online learning easier for both teachers and children to access. After a couple of weeks of setting up and training for teachers and parents, we switched over
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to Google Classroom, where setting work, videos and live meets with the class were so much easier. Teachers had to develop their IT skills quickly and soon settled into the new way of working. We had the added concern that some children could not access online learning, which would be detrimental to their learning. The government pledged support with providing IT equipment, but this did not happen for primary pupils, so we had to act. Ipads were reconfigured and distributed to these parents to support these children. A routine was soon in place with google classroom and the vast majority of children accessed learning regularly. We wanted to ensure that we reached out to all families, so teachers were also tasked with making phone calls to each family each week, checking on the welfare of all and offering a supportive ear and solving issues where they arose. My leadership team also kept in close contact with our families through regular letters and calls, trying to reassure parents about the situation. Parents faced their own struggles with juggling work, childcare and home educating their children. We were impressed and thankful as to how quickly everyone adapted and the resilience families showed. The end of May brought further challenges to us, as schools were to reopen for nursery, reception, Year 1 and Year 6. Guidelines were very clear that children must be kept 2m apart and sit in rows and not come in contact with each other. “How on earth do you do this with nursery and reception?” was the million dollar question posed by the staff. Our best classroom practice was changed, classrooms organised into rows, packs of individual equipment were organised, not to mention the stringent cleaning regimes and mountains of sanitiser and cleaning products that we had to order. Risk assessments were written and all staff trained in how we were to reopen Woodside. The team pulled together once again cleaning and waking up a school that had been closed for months. Apprehension was high, but the staff rallied round and did what they always do and put our children first. School was not school as we knew it. Learning was not how we usually learn, but children settled well into the ‘new’ school. Most only had half a class, so teachers still had to carry on providing work for those still at home, so work loads increased, but teachers went over and above to support our children, families and each other again. Information was shared with parents about our new way of working and we tried to reassure them that we had put as much in place as we could to keep everyone safe.
About 50% of the open year groups came in. It was fantastic to see our children back and we provided as many opportunities as we could including sports days, outdoor learning, a virtual Year 6 end of year show and a socially distanced leavers’ assembly on the playground. We had worked to provide virtual transitions for our new reception children and meet your new teachers had be done over video link. All strange, but this had become our new norm. Finally the end of term arrived and staff were able to take a break and prepare for the full reopening of the school in September. Although exhausted, we were excited about having our children back in. September arrived with 220 happy faces all excited to return to school. Risk assessments, classrooms and information had been shared and children soon settled back into the routines of hand washing and their new ‘bubbles’. We were so pleased to finally hear the laughter and chatter in the classrooms and to do some real life teaching. Back to what we do best. We know there may be disruptions to school for our families with isolation for some bubbles where positive cases occur, but we know that we are ready to support the children and their families if this happens. We have prepared our online learning even better with live lessons and demonstrations, and will ensure there are plenty of opportunities to keep up with learning that has been happening through the term so far. Even the camera shy among us are becoming on-screen stars! I am sure that I speak for most heads in saying that this has been the most surreal and challenging time of my career. I am fortunate to be part of a very supportive MAT –Ivy Learning trust, who have supported me through this- from the multitude of questions I have posed, supported with risk assessments and have been there when I have just needed someone to let off steam to. (and there has been a lot of steam!) I have often stood back and marvelled at how my team came together and supported each other, and continue to do so, going above and beyond to ensure the children are happy, safe and learning. Each and every member of the team has played their part and needs recognition of this. I could not have kept the school going without their continued dedication, support and humour.
LIFE
Emma’s Story
Emma Rigby
Founder & Director of Love Your Doorstep @loveyourdoorstep 2020 has been a year none of us will ever forget. For me it’s been a journey of rediscovering priorities, where health and family are high on my agenda. Just prior to lockdown I started displaying symptoms of COVID which meant selfisolating a little earlier than others. There isn’t a nice way to put it, it was horrible, I’d never felt so unwell. On top of the kids being off, I knew that during this time we would have our community turning to us for help. I’m the Founder and Director of local organisation Love Your DoorStep which set up following the London riots to bring the community together. We have a large community following in the London Borough of Enfield. I pushed forward through illness to lead on the largest community response in the borough. This isn’t me wanting recognition, this is to help build a picture of what communities will do to help each other in times of need. We mobilised over 600 volunteers and worked with over 60 local charities to help residents and emergency workers with food, as well as delivering essential supplies and prescriptions to those who were shielding or unable to collect for themselves Meanwhile my 12 year old son had started displaying symptoms of COVID, but I remember thinking rather positively, “we are coming out the other side, we are going to be ok.” cherubsmagazine.com
One afternoon his temperature spiked and on day three nothing was keeping the temperature down, so I took him straight to urgent care to be checked over. Following that we were sent to North Middlesex children’s A&E and the week that followed was every parent’s nightmare. My son looked to have contracted a rare inflammatory syndrome that they were seeing in some children off the back of having COVID and the antibodies. The exact cause of MIS-C as it’s called, is not known yet, but it appears to be an excessive immune response related to COVID-19. That initial night in North Middlesex Hospital was a very long night, and they had explained the next morning he would be blue lighted to Great Ormond street A&E for closer observations. At one point he started to fit as they were pumping his little body full of antibiotics, antivirals and steroids to bring the inflammation down. The room was full of doctors trying to get their heads around this new aggressive syndrome. The doctor said to me they were just very unsure about the illness, they were still learning and at that point I thought he might not be ok and I felt the panic. I’m not sure if you’ve ever experienced that feeling? But it’s the fear of someone you love might not make it through. The fear running through your body of feeling completely helpless looking at your child and knowing you can’t do anything. All I could think was he looked so tiny and fragile in that hospital bed. However, we got through the long night
and the following morning he had stabilised enough to have him moved by a specialist team to Great Ormond Street. On arriving he went straight into A&E where he was monitored for 12 hours. The care was incredible. His brain, heart, abdomen, lungs were all checked by their specialist teams and after close monitoring he was moved to a ward. We spent a week in that ward, the two of us during lockdown. The hours went quickly considering and every minute and hour I watched the amazing team at GOSH take care of my son nursing him back to health. Twice daily bloods, intravenous antibiotics, antiviral and steroids and getting himself up to standing and walking again having lost so much strength. Meanwhile, I was blessed to have my amazing team who picked up the business and helped to take all pressure off, as well as the huge team of volunteers who kept the community response ticking over for Enfield. Walking out of the hospital together was a very emotional and proud moment. The bond between us I didn’t think could get any stronger, but it had. I’d seen things in him that week I hadn’t really absorbed before because life was so ‘busy’. His strength, his optimism, his intelligence, his humour and my god he’s brave. Braver than me. My heartfelt thanks go to the teams at North Middlesex and Great Ormond Street. Their professionalism and compassion during such a challenging time, is something we will never forget.
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LIFE
Jonathan’s Story Jonathan Andrew Hume Actor @MrHume
I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place on how I feel about my experience during this pandemic. On one hand, the theatre industry to which I belong has pretty much shut down, and on the other hand, I get to spend all day and every day with my son. My little one was born a few weeks before the country went into Lockdown. After hearing about the restrictions imposed on parents, especially fathers, whose babies were born during the pandemic, I feel extremely blessed to have been present throughout the entire birthing experience, and to support my wife in the hospital, be by her side and bond with my son. After my two weeks of paternity leave, while working, I really felt the pull to be at home. Of course, I was glad to be back at work, because I absolutely love what I do, but I missed my new family and the fear of missing out was huge. It’s our first child. Ever since I can remember I have always wanted to be a father, and secretly a stayat-home father. Little did I know I was going to get my wish.
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Jonathan getting his son to ‘kiss the fish’ from the Olivier Award winning West End musical, Come From Away.
Then Lockdown happened, and along with a lot of industries, theatres were suddenly shut down with no indication as to when they will reopen. Was this craziness going to last a month, four months? Had I just lost my job? All of those questions and more were swirling around my head. But I felt I had to put on a brave face and hide my worries, because I had a wife and new baby at home, who needed me to not just be present and proactive, but also to provide. The majority of the jobs in the theatre and entertainment industry are freelance. So forget about being furloughed, or applying for whatever help is out there, because I and countless others in my industry were (and still are) ineligible for any financial help due to the many holes in the system. The government very publicly pledged £1.57bn for the Arts, however the majority of it went to infrastructure rather than the businesses and freelance workers who desperately needed it. So, I’m at home, with no work, and trying to enjoy parenthood. Our son is breastfed, and because I obviously cannot breastfeed my child, when he cries for milk, I find myself at a loss because I personally can’t comfort him. The bond between a mother and her baby is something that cannot be replicated by a man, so when my son wants his mother, I used to (and at times still do) take that as a form of rejection. I would lay my life for my child and do anything for him, but there are imposed limits. As a man,
who is gushing love for his son, I found this depressing. There were many times when I felt useless and in the way. Combine that with cabin fever from lockdown, and a propensity for anxiety, my mental health definitely suffered. Again, I put on that brave face and kept my feelings inside, but that only added fuel to the fire and as much as I thought I was doing a good job hiding these thoughts, my body language was exposing me. My wife sat me down and we had a heart-to-heart about it. I was honest, and held nothing back. What surfaced from that conversation was that my wife had some similar feelings, but also, what each of us felt we were not doing well at, the other had the ability to pick up the slack. Our partnership in parenting was forged and, of course, each day is a new challenge with a growing baby, but we are in it together, both physically and mentally. What we’ve realised is, our openness created a calmness in our personalities and actions, which in turn have rubbed off onto our happy, smiley, calm and attentive little boy. The pandemic has brought about a huge number of negative situations, but for me, it has allowed me to create an incredible bond with my son, and a closer relationship with my wife, both of which I am thankful for.
Book Your Tickets today for you shall go to the ball! Friday 08 January 2021 Saturday 09 January 2021 Sunday 10 January 2021 Saturday 17 January 2021 Sunday 18 January 2021 Saturday 23 January 2021 Sunday 24 January 2021
Matinee 13:30 13:00 13:30 13:00 13:30 13:00
Evening 19:30 18:30 17:30 18:30 17:30 18:30 17:30
Children/Concessions - £16.75 • Adults - £19.75 Family Tickets - £67 (based on 2 Adults, 2 Children)
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