Motherhood by Amanda de Vaulx

1. Please introduce yourself: Name, what do you do & how many children you have.

Amanda de Vaulx, Co-Founder MyTwirl – 3 Children ages 8, 7, 3

2. How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother?

Building a new business can take over your life, but it’s important to make time for family (and myself) whenever possible. When the stars are aligned and all are still sleeping, I manage to sneak downstairs for a peaceful cup of coffee before the day’s chaos begins. This sets me up for a good day. I am also very fortunate to live next door to my co-Fouder. Between us we are able juggle work, school runs and childcare. It’s a unique situation, and it works for us!

3. What top tips would you give to any working mum?

Be positive. In my former position, I was incredibly overcome by stress and my family was directly affected by it. I’ve since learned that I can’t strive for that perfect balance because it doesn’t exist. I would tell any working mum to just do your best and accept that not everything will be as you may like, but as long as you’re smiling and present when you’re with the kids, everything will be just fine!

4. What do you love most about London?

Do you have a favourite spot with your children? Having moved from NYC to London, I have to say that London is an incredibly child friendly city! The variety of activities, parks and theatres that are available to the littlest Londoners are just incredible. My children love being outside and are particularly fond of a stroll along Regent’s Canal, making sail boats out of sticks and leaves or racing their scooters down the Southbank from London Bridge to Waterloo, with a ride on the London Eye.

5. How do you define quality ‘me-time’?

See #2! I also need time with my girlfriends, preferably dancing!

6. What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood?

I’m torn between 2 favourite things… When I see them exude confidence and accomplish something – whether a school play or a playground obstacle – I love the look of determination, the tenacity, courage and finally the smile! The other thing I love are the cuddles. There is nothing like a squeeze from their whole heart and little body to show love. My least favourite thing is the uncertainty and questioning my parenting. How do I know that I’m making the right choices for them? What if I yell too much? Am I saying the right things? But in the end, the love and support is there…and the cuddles!

7. Tell us something people don’t know about you. I was captain of the cheerleading squad at my high school! Any excuse to wear a cute skirt that twirls…

8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first time Mum? Don’t try to plan and schedule it all, from childbirth on… Not only is so much of it beyond our control, but there is actually so much that we can learn from our children by letting them just be themselves and have downtime. My first 2 children are only 16 months apart, and some days I find them tucked away in their room playing for hours creating a world of their own with playmobils, to the point where they don’t even come down for a meal. They’re happy, creative, and it’s quiet at home!

9. I’m a mum and…… 

10. Finally, what do you love most about Kensington Mums?

Kensington mums is what I consider a “one stop shop” with regards to advice, reviews, interests and events. But the most important part is that it is very real and accessible to mums in London. I feel more like I’m talking to a good girlfriend who knows what I’m going through or looking for.