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What Type of Social Media Mum are you?

By
The Well Clinic
-
social media

Social media is part of our everyday life. We all use it in different ways, depending on our personal circumstances and personalities. There is no right or wrong way of using it…

Whether we use it to stay in touch with friends and family or keep up-to-date with the current news, or local community events, here at Kensington Mums we love to keep you in the loop. Think of your social feed like it’s your very own magazine and make sure you follow accounts that empower and inspire you. But remember, never judge a mum scrolling on her phone, click here to know why. Make sure you are part of our community on Instagram.

So tell us, what type of social media mum are you?

The Private Mum

social mediaThe private mum doesn’t like her children’s pictures to be posted online. Instead, she would rather send them via private message to family and close friends. She might still share the occasional photo of herself and a few carefully selected ones of her children online, but she would prefer if her children’s faces were not visible. The private mum values her and her children’s privacy above everything else.

The Silent Scroller

social mediaThe silent scroller is a mum who we know is on social media (because her status is shown as “active”) but who does not really enjoy sharing any updates or commenting on other people’s posts. Instead, she prefers reading the news (or blog articles) and scrolling her feed for new posts. The silent scroller is someone who simply appreciates this moment in the day when she can sit on the sofa with a cuppa to catch up on what she’s missed (in peace)…

The Authentic Mum

social mediaHer motto in life is “What you see is what you get”. She shares everything: the good, the bad (and the ugly). It does not matter if there is a pile of laundry in the corner of a photo shared on social media, she believes her home is made to be lived in. Her posts are real and show life at its colourful and vibrant best. For the authentic mum, messiness is what makes life beautiful and she would not have it any other way.

The Perfectionist Mum

social media The perfectionist mum will take her time to create the perfect shot, write the perfect caption, or find the best quotes or memes for her posts. All her photos are carefully edited to make sure everything is where it should be (and most of all, nothing is out of place). The perfectionist mum knows that people on social media can sometimes be a little bit judgmental and would rather not expose herself to criticism. She enjoys sharing updates with her friends and family but prefers to be a bit more “careful” about what she shares on social media.

The Oversharer

social mediaThe oversharer is someone who likes to share everything with the world: photos of their meals, intimate photos of themselves and their family and even some juicy confessions! Nothing is left unsaid with the oversharer but that’s what we love about them. Their personality is such that they are easy to connect with and make us feel more comfortable about opening up to others.

What would you add to this list?

We invite you to join Kensington Mums Community on Instagram and on Threads too, to always stay in the loop.

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Win 1x Session of HydraFacial Treatment worth £198 | Competition

By
The Well Clinic
-
HydraFacial Treatment

This competition is sponsored by Pulse Light Clinic.

Pulse Light Clinic is a renowned medical aesthetic clinic specializing in advanced skin and body treatments. The popular HydraFacial treatment combines cutting-edge technology with a gentle yet thorough approach, effectively targeting and improving various skin imperfections, including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, congested pores and dry skin. This non-invasive procedure cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin, resulting in a more youthful and vibrant appearance. The treatment is suitable for all skin types, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking healthier, more radiant skin complexion.

Winning Prize

Win 1x Session of HydraFacial Treatment worth £198.

How to enter
    • To be in with a chance to WIN this competition simply:
    • Fill in the Rafflecopter widget below to verify your entries
    • Please read full terms & conditions below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms and Conditions

  1. All entries MUST BE subscribed with www.kensingtonmums.co.uk newsletter
  2. This prize draw is open to UK residents aged 18 years or over.
  3. Only one entry per person
  4. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative
  5. Participants must follow competition widget entries.
  6. Kensington Mums will contact the prize winner via email. If the winner does not reply within 24 hours, Kensington Mums will select another winner.
  7. Competition opens 20th July 2023 until 7th August 2023.
  8. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
  9. The treatment is available to individuals aged 18+ years.
  10. Treatment must be claimed before Sunday 1st September 2023 at one of Pulse Light central London clinics
  11. The prize is non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and cannot be redeemed for cash or any other treatment.

Summer Family Activities at London Transport Museum

By
The Well Clinic
-
London Transport Museum

This is Sponsored content with the London Transport Museum.

Discover the ‘Green Journey’ installation and sustainability-inspired creative workshops

Saturday 22 July – Sunday 3 September

  • Families can explore a ‘Green Journey’ installation at London Transport Museum this summer – kids go free!
  • The interactive installation makes learning about climate change and sustainable solutions a vibrant, fun, and engaging experience
  • Learn how climate change affects London and discover the transport innovations, green jobs, and small actions people can take at home to make a difference
  • Families can also join sensory storytelling sessions, creative ‘Build Better’ workshops and a stamper trail around the Museum galleries
  • Activities are part of London Transport Museum’s Climate Crossroads programme sponsored by Mastercard, ABM and Sopra Steria
  • Installation and family activities will take place from 22 July to 3 September, find out more and book tickets online at ltmuseum.co.uk.

Looking for fun and educational family activities for the summer holidays, where kids can go for free? Head to London Transport Museum, an award-winning family day out, to enjoy a line-up of activities that will get children learning all about sustainability in a fun and engaging way.

From 22 July to 3 September, visitors will be able to explore an interactive ‘Green Journey’ installation, a tactile display that will get families thinking about the causes of climate change and its impact on London. Visitors can discover the innovative solutions being implemented to create a greener future for the city – such as TfL’s low and zero-emission buses. They can learn about green jobs and the people behind them, and be inspired to make small, eco-friendly changes at home that can make a difference.

This summer will also feature a series of ‘Build Better’ family activities exploring different aspects of transport design and sustainability through sensory storytelling, creative workshops, drop-in Girls4Tech STEM workshops hosted by Mastercard, and a ’Green Journey’ inspired stamper trail through the Museum galleries.

These summer holiday activities are part of London Transport Museum’s Climate Crossroads programme, sponsored by Mastercard, ABM and Sopra Steria. The programme creates experiences that get people thinking about what the future of our city could look like and – inspired by the great engineering ingenuity of London’s past – explores what innovations, skills and jobs we need to build this sustainable future.

Visit the London Transport Museum website for dates and details.

London Transport Museum

‘Build Better’ workshops in the Transportorium

Selected dates between Wednesday 26 July and Saturday 2 September

Suitable for children 8-14 years old, accompanied by parents.

Join creative activities that will delve into the past, present and future of London’s public transport and sustainability. Discover how transport has shaped the capital through the ages and imagine the role it could play in years to come in ensuring a greener future.

Museum-wide ‘Green Journey’ Stamper Trail

Saturday 22 July – Sunday 3 September 2023

Families can weave through the Museum’s galleries on a green-themed stamper trail, exploring the Museum’s amazing collection, learning interesting facts, and answering quiz questions as they go.

‘Healthy Streets’ reflective activity in Luke’s Skills Space 

Saturday 22 July – Sunday 3 September 2023

A quiet space where families can reflect on their own neighbourhoods and the changes that could be made to improve them. Families can design their dream ‘healthy’ street for a greener London of the future.

Sensory/Kinesthetic storytelling sessions in the Transportorium

Selected dates between Sunday 23 July and Tuesday 29 August

Suitable for under 7s, accompanied by parents

From Kayla the Kestrel’s Party in the Park to Recycling Rangers and a time traveller from London’s past, families can join fun dance and movement storytelling sessions that will get young visitors thinking about the environment and protecting the capital’s green spaces.

Mastercard Girls4TechTakeover 

Thursday 17 August

Mastercard’s Girls4Tech STEM workshops will take place in the Transportorium. Youngsters can drop into sessions on Algorithms, Cryptology and Big Data, learning about these topics through fun, problem-solving games. The Girls4Tech workshops will be run by Mastercard staff, looking to inspire the next generation to pursue a STEM career.

Family SEND Early Explorer Morning

Saturday 29 July from 8:30 am – 10 am

Children with additional needs and their families will have exclusive access to the Museum. Youngsters will have a chance to engage with summer holiday activities in a quiet and calm environment, free of distractions, before the Museum opens to the general public. Further information is available on London Transport Museum’s website.

While at the Museum families can also see real buses, trams and Tube trains from 200 years of the capital’s transport history. They can learn how to drive a modern-day Elizabeth line train in the Future Engineers gallery and climb aboard a fleet of mini vehicles in the All Aboard play zone.

When stomachs start to rumble families can head to Canteen, the Museum’s café, run by the popular eatery Benugo. Step in for a bite to eat between 11:00 and 17:00 and enjoy views over Covent Garden piazza. Visitors can also browse a fantastic range of exclusive transport-inspired toys, gifts, homeware, poster artwork and games in the Museum’s shop.

Timed tickets to visit London Transport Museum can be booked online in advance at www.ltmuseum.co.uk. Adult tickets are £24 and allow free return day-time entry for a whole year. Plus, kids go free!

This is Sponsored content with the London Transport Museum.

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Top Public Fountains in West London 

Navigating GCSE Subject Selection for Future Success

By
The Well Clinic
-
GCSE

This is Sponsored Content by Oxbridge Applications

Choosing the right subjects for your child’s GCSEs is a crucial step in their educational journey. Not only does it set the stage for their A-Level choices, but it can also impact their future university prospects, particularly for the very top tier of universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. In this article, we will explore the significance of GCSE subject choice, how it influences A-Level options, and ultimately, how it can shape your child’s path towards a successful application to Oxford or Cambridge.

The Foundation of Success: Selecting GCSE Subjects Wisely

Understanding the Importance of GCSEs: GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) are typically  the first milestone in a student’s academic life. They provide a foundation of knowledge and skills in various subjects, equipping students with the necessary qualifications to pursue their desired A-Level courses. While GCSEs are important in their own right, it is crucial to recognise their influence on future educational opportunities. For this reason, we recommend that students balance their interests and abilities with consideration of what they might want to pursue at A-Levels and beyond when picking their GCSEs.

It’s also important to bear in mind that many of the top universities take into consideration overall GCSE performance as an indicator of success when assessing applications, giving yet another reason to think carefully when choosing GCSE courses. Moreover, increasingly, GCSE performance is contextualised; universities will look at school average performance and compare it to a measure of a student’s GCSE attainment to help them interpret the data.

Exploring the connection between GCSEs and A-Levels: GCSE subject selection plays a vital role in shaping the range of A-Level subjects available to your child. Certain A-Level courses have prerequisite GCSE subjects or preferred subject combinations. For example, if your child is interested in studying Music performance or technology at A-Level, then a GCSE in Music will likely be essential to their progressing onto their chosen course. By choosing the right GCSE subjects aligned with their interests and future aspirations, students can keep their options open for further study and potential specialisation.

Consider sitting down with your child and asking what they envision themselves specialising in further down the line; if they want to be a doctor, lawyer, or linguist, for example, you know that they should focus their GCSE choices on the sciences, humanities, or languages respectively!

If your child is still unsure on where the next steps will take them, consider a more open set of ‘facilitating’ subjects centred around their interests and best grades. To help with these choices, it can be useful to consult universities’ own guidance on their preferred (‘facilitating’) subjects for post-16 school study. Cambridge’s ‘The Subject Matters’, for example, is a valuable resource to understand what is valued from the university’s perspective at this level.

For example, many students, regardless of whether they know what they want to do or not, need to decide whether to take double- or triple-award science GCSEs. Discuss with your child whether a science, engineering, or related degree is on the cards for them, and use this to decide whether triple science is a useful addition to their repertoire; this is particularly important for students for whom triple science removes one of their other GCSE choices.

GCSE

The University Factor: Selective universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge, renowned for their academic excellence, have specific subject requirements for undergraduate programs. Consider these requirements as early as possible to ensure your child’s GCSE subject choices align with their desired future course of study. While UK universities often have subject-specific requirements, they generally prioritise depth of knowledge in relevant subjects. Many websites, including the official university websites, offer detailed information about subject prerequisites and ‘desired subjects’ for each course. Use this knowledge to guide your child’s GCSE subject selection, ensuring they are aligned with their future aspirations.

Remember, competitive courses consider overall GCSE attainment as an indicator of future success. So, your child should be confident in their abilities to obtain a good grade in the selected GCSEs. Otherwise, they risk rejection from their chosen course, regardless of the subjects.

Core Subjects and Beyond: When helping your child select their GCSEs, remember to factor in the core subjects that they will likely be required to take by their school. Core subjects provide a solid academic foundation and demonstrate proficiency in essential areas, regardless of their intended field of study, so don’t consider this a limitation if your child wishes to study something outside of maths, the sciences, or English.

Furthermore, your child’s school might insist on students selecting from a language and humanities (e.g. history, geography, economics, etc.) option; again, think of this as the opportunity to gain breadth whilst targeting your child’s interests rather than a restriction. This approach ensures flexibility when transitioning to A-Levels and enhances their chances of meeting subject requirements for prestigious universities.

Seeking Guidance: Lots of these decisions require close attention to a student’s individual situation, and lots of information available online requires further interpretation. Don’t hesitate to engage with your child’s school, teachers, and career advisors throughout the GCSE subject selection process. They possess valuable insights into the suitability of certain subjects for your child’s strengths, interests, and future goals.

Seeking advice from educational consultants like Oxbridge Applications can provide you with a thorough understanding of subject choices’ potential impact and aid in making informed decisions.

Final Takeaways 

As a parent, your support and guidance shape your child’s educational journey. Consider the GCSE subject choices’ implications on A-Level options and the requirements of prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge. Empower your child to make informed decisions for a successful transition to A-Levels and potential application to top universities.

About Oxbridge Applications:

Established in 1999, they are the leader in preparing students for Oxford and Cambridge.

Register online for free and receive a wealth of resources, including their e-book “So You Want To Go To Oxbridge? Tell me about a banana”.

Contact information: info@oxbridgeapplications.com or +44 (0)20 7499 2394

This is Sponsored Content by Oxbridge Applications

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How can you use the Summer to prepare for the 11+? 

Summer Guide 2023

By
The Well Clinic
-
Summer Guide 2023

Our Summer Guide 2023 is out! Find all the latest summer trends: from clothing and accessories to make-up and jewellery

Introducing KizDesigns: The Perfect Dinnerware Set for Children

Summer Guide 2023

Mealtime with kids is a unique experience filled with joy and excitement. As a mom, I understand the need for the right dinnerware for different age groups. When my 5-year-old outgrew his plates, finding suitable ones became a challenge.

That’s when I got creative and personalized his plates with his favourite characters. Mealtime instantly became more enjoyable. Inspired by this, I founded KizDesigns, a mother-run business that meets the needs of parents and kids. Our dinnerware sets feature hand-drawn illustrations that spark imagination and make mealtime fun.

Quality and safety are our priorities. Our sets are made with premium melamine, ensuring durability, and are BPA-free for your child’s well-being.

Key features of KizDesigns dinnerware sets:

  1. Age-appropriate sizes: Plates and bowls designed for different age groups, preventing outgrowing too quickly.
  2. Personalized designs: Sets include various hand-drawn illustrations so kids can choose their favourite characters and themes.
  3. High-quality materials: Made with durable melamine to withstand everyday use.
  4. Safety first: All sets are BPA-free, giving you peace of mind.

At KizDesigns, we make mealtime joyful for parents and kids. Our sets combine functionality, creativity, and safety.

Why settle for ordinary dinnerware? Explore our collection at KizDesigns and bring happiness to your child’s meals. Join our community of trusted parents and picky eaters who love KizDesigns. Order your premium dinnerware set today and create cherished memories.

Remember, mealtime is about more than just food; it’s about the smiles we share.

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Relaxayvoo Summer Body Oil

Summer Guide 2023

A stimulating and joyful treatment for the body and the mind. The texture: Smooth, light and easily absorbed. The Scent: Fresh woody & spicy

Ingredients: Grapefruit, Christe marine, Immortelle, Pine.

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Long Time No Sea

Summer Guide 2023

We love our beach love fun, creativity and caring (for the beach).

Soft GOTS-certified Organic Cotton T-shirts and Hoodies for adults and children with fun beach and marine themes are a great way to get in the mood and make memories with the ones we love.

Cool sunglasses for ocean adventurers with Italian Barberini lenses with frames made from reclaimed fishing nets (without the fishy bits!)

Soft beach play items made from sustainable silicone to encourage unfettered fun and sand-everywhere creativity.

Re-useable Beeswax-coated Food Wraps (for less cling film on the beach and beyond)

Delivered in plastic-free packaging (which is re-useable).

10% OFF first order when signing up to Happy Tides Newsletter (code: HAPPYTIDES10)
FREE delivery on orders of £50 or more.

We give 10% of profits to beach and marine conservation (well we can’t enjoy ourselves on the beach if it isn’t clean and safe can we?)

*£5 store credit when the garment is returned for recycling after life use #CircularFashion.

We work with undergraduate design and marketing students to help provide them with valuable work experience (and we learn lots from them too!)

Seas the day!

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Colour this summer with Efamol®

Summer Guide 2023

Keep little ones occupied this summer with a new colouring competition and be in with a chance of winning a years’ supply of Efamol® Kids Omega 3 DHA Drops.

Efamol® has created a new colouring book aimed at children aged 7 and below, which is now available free of charge with all Efamol orders. All you have to do is post a picture of any of the pages coloured in from the book and tag @efamol_uk to enter.

Formulated with children in mind, Efamol® Kids Omega 3 DHA Drops are a simple and effective way to top up your child’s Omega 3 levels with a 1ml drop1 to help support your child’s brain function and vision2. With no fishy taste, sugar-free and a natural mild lemon flavour.

Efamol® Kids Omega 3 DHA Drops (£13.99)3 are available from www.efamol.com as well as Amazon, Boots the Chemists, Health Food Stores and Independent Pharmacies.

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Personalised Cap Decorating Activity for playdates and parties

Summer Guide 2023

The at-home activity every parent should have up their sleeve this summer holidays

If you’re keen to mix up holidays and days out with some time at home this summer you should grab one of Me-shirt kits’ fun cap decorating packs which include everything needed for children to personalise a cap at home with their friends!

Me-shirt’s personalised activity packs are made to order for your playdates, parties, family gatherings or sleepovers ( they also do pencil case and t-shirt decorating kits) Giving you an easy, low mess, super fun craft activity that can be set up in the garden or round the dinner table. Then you can just relax as the kids zone in on their creations and a moment’s peace descends.

At the end of the activity, each child will have a one-of-a-kind cap to show off with pride and protect them from the summer sun, and you can use all the leftover materials for other craft projects on another day.

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IKKS Paris

Summer Guide 2023

French fashion and lifestyle brand IKKS Paris has brought its Parisian attitude and a sense of free spirit to London. IKKS Paris, was founded in 1987 by Gérard Le Goff and offers a full collection of womenswear, menswear, kidswear and accessories.

IKKS Paris aims to embolden urban free spirits around the world to rock their lives through creative, responsible, 365-day Parisian easy chic fashion. The collection includes four stylistic pillars, Urban Rock, Urban Cargo, Urban Military and Urban Mobility.

With two stores in London, Kings Road and Carnaby Street, IKKS Paris offers a wide range of womenswear, menswear and kidswear. Leather is an iconic statement for IKKS Paris, with their leather jackets made from lambskin, they are the perfect rock-touch addition to any wardrobe, as well as their classic handbags from 1440 to the 111.

They excitingly will be launching a new handbag range as part of the AW23 collection soon.

Their current womenswear SS23 range houses a selection of co-ords, dresses and blouses, with a mixed colour palette of prints and pastels, emphasising the femininity in the collection.

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Game, Set, Strawberry – MELT Chocolates launch luxury fruit ice creams

Summer Guide 2023

It’s a case of game, set, strawberry this summer with luxury chocolatier MELT Chocolates Summer 2023 launch, luxurious fruit ice creams – which include these ‘Giant Strawberry’ ice creams – lavish strawberry ice cream enrobed in MELT’s equally luxurious and award-winning strawberry chocolate.

MELT have three flavours available – Strawberry, Hazelnut and Passion Fruit – which all use the finest A2 milk sourced from Jersey cow herds, direct from the Channel Islands. A2 milk is an ancient British milk that comes from rare breeds, and which contains the unique A2 beta-casein protein, giving it a softer and creamier taste than regular milk.

MELT’s expert knowledge of conching and grinding cocoa beans has also been applied to the milk— whipping it to an incredibly fine micro-level, as employed in 3-Star Michelin restaurants. The resulting combination of great chocolate and great ice cream is a mind-blowing mixture of textures and temperatures.

Handmade in the heart of Notting Hill by MELT’s master chocolatiers, these luxury treats won’t be around for long! Available only till the start of September at MELT’s chocolate boutiques at 59 Ledbury Road and 6 Clarendon Road.

£6.50 each

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Paguro Upcycle Sunshine Recycled Necklace

Summer Guide 2023

Introducing the Sunshine Recycled Wood and Gold Necklace by Paguro Upcycle – handcrafted with the utmost care, a beautiful piece that combines elegance with sustainability.

Inspired by the beauty of nature, our maker uses offcuts of teak wood salvaged from furniture factories and transforms them into unique pendants that embody the purity of natural environments. Reflecting the handmade nature of the items and the sourcing of the upcycled materials, each necklace is one-of-a-kind.

With its 24K gold-plated brass ring and titanium chain, the necklace exudes a timeless charm. Its lightweight design ensures comfortable wear, making it suitable for any occasion. Complete the set with matching earrings to create a stunning ensemble.

Not only does this necklace make a statement with its beauty, but it also serves as a reminder for the importance of reusing, recreating, and recycling to combat pollution. By wearing this necklace, you contribute to the global movement towards a greener and more conscious future.

Join us in embracing sustainable fashion with the Sunshine necklace, where style meets environmental consciousness. Let’s make a positive impact together, one accessory at a time.

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Valentino Beauty signature

Summer Guide 2023

True to Valentino Beauty’s signature triple technique application, this new versatile matte liquid colour can also be built from easy-to-wear to extravagant make-up look: on the lips, on the cheeks, or both. With a playground of twelve impactful colours, tones and shades, Liquirosso is an invitation to individual expression of diversity and personality, to a world of creative nonconformity.

Matte, yet soft and smooth, the colour glides on easily thanks to volatile oils and spherical fillers for effortlessly perfect application. Infused with peony flower extract, Liquirosso offers 12-hour comfort and a moisturising sensation on lips. The super-light, hydrating formula feels as weightless as a second skin

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The Jacksons’ Beach Bag

Summer Guide 2023

These bags are the perfect option for a fun but mindful shopping alternative, as you can take them to carry your holiday essentials, your everyday go-to, or for shopping and travelling. They are a joyous stylish feature for your wardrobe or even as home decor.

Our bags are 100% jute, which is a strong plant grown locally in Bangladesh. The nature of this material means that the bags can withstand intense use and the test of time. And after a long and happy life, they can biodegrade on the compost.

Sustainability is a long journey and we know we are miles away from perfect but choosing jute as the main material of our products, is a promising step towards a fairer, more sustainable method of production.

Shop Now

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Summer Scoop 2023

Motherhood by Steph Douglas

By
The Well Clinic
-
Steph Douglas

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

I’m Steph Douglas, I run the thoughtful gift company Don’t Buy Her Flowers, and I have three children with my husband Doug – Buster (12), Mabel (10) and Frank (5). The business actually came about because I received eight beautiful, well-meant bouquets when I had my first, and thought it was a bizarre gift – to give a new mum another thing to care for.

We now cater for all occasions, with customers creating bespoke gift boxes for women, men and children and corporate gifts too, but it very much started because of my experience having children. My eldest thinks I owe him some kind of fee for the inspiration!

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

Sometimes it feels like I’m managing, other times I’m dropping balls and feeling rubbish about how I’m performing at work and as a mum! This stage is the ‘rush hour’ – when your kids are young and physically still need you, you have responsibility at work, your parents are getting older, you’re still young enough to feel like you should have a social life, and there is just a lot pulling you in all directions.

When I had my third child, I massively lowered my expectations of what is possible – I can’t volunteer at every school event, I can’t make every meal from scratch, and my house is not the tidiest and I need to be ok with that or I’ll end up totally burned out. I chose to run a business and I chose to have kids, and I can’t do each of those things while pretending I haven’t done the other. The summer holidays are coming and they take the juggle to a whole other level!

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

If you have a partner and you both work, the two of you need to figure out what that looks like. How do you split the household chores, the pick-ups and drop-offs, and the admin involved in school or nursery?

I think we slipped into fairly traditional roles when the kids were small, and I felt really resentful of it but at the same time couldn’t work out why – I’d grown up seeing those traditional roles in my family as well as in films and messaging all around me, but we’re living in a very different world.

It took a lot of conversations for us to work out, reading and listening to people like Eve Rodsky of the Fairplay method, and Laura Danger of That Darn Chat, and thankfully Doug has engaged in the conversation! Also, accept help. Sharing lifts, swapping kids for play dates, building a community locally where you help each other out. We don’t live near our families and that has helped massively.

4. What do you love most about London? Do you have a favourite spot with your children?

I love how close we are to central London if we want it – I didn’t love going into London with a buggy but now the kids are a bit older, they can appreciate how cool it is to be a 20-minute train ride from it all! I think they’re going to love it even more as they get older.

Southbank is always excellent with kids – for roaming and climbing and snacking! Where we live in Richmond, Richmond Park and Marble Hill are regulars for us at the weekend.

Steph Douglas

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

I think I view any time on my own as ‘me-time’ – supermarket, solo train ride to a meeting, smear test – I’ll take it! But ‘quality’ time is probably when I’m not doing something for someone else or with a purpose – I play netball once a week and that is definitely not for anyone else. I have to concentrate really hard so it really clears my head.

I recently went on a pilates retreat run by my friends Nicola and Zoe, called Retreat Yourself. There were fifteen women and it was really emotional at times, as it was a big deal for everyone to have booked something just for them and away from families and work.

It felt massively self-indulgent in the run-up, but once there it highlighted how little there is that is just for me during this phase of my life and that of most of the women I know.

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

My favourite thing is seeing these delicious babies turn into humans with likes and dislikes and personalities and friendships. They’re each really different; my eldest is now twelve and secondary school is a whole other thing.

He comes home with opinions on the education system or knowing a song that is from the nineties and it is fascinating to watch (as well as making us feel really old). My least favourite is the number of times I have to repeat ‘TEETH’ and ‘SHOES’ still in the mornings, and generally nagging them about picking up their stuff.

I’m very glad to be out of the baby/toddler phase. I look back at pictures and videos and they were so so gorgeous, but I still remember how exhausting it was and all I wanted was someone to say ‘it gets easier’, and in my opinion, it does.

7. Tell us something people don’t know about you

I applied to go on a show called Bar Wars when I was at University and went to an in-person audition in Bristol. Who knows what could have happened had I got on!

8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first-time Mum?

You are doing a better job of this than you will ever give yourself credit for. If you can get a new mum to recognise that, they might just be a bit gentler on themselves. Unfortunately, most of us work this out way later, having beaten ourselves up for not being good enough.

9. I’m a mum and…

I wish we could all be gentler on ourselves.

10. Finally, please let us know what you love most about Kensington Mums

I love the ideas about places to go and things to do in London. We tend to go to the same places so getting tried and tested recos is great!

Read more inspiring interviews as part of our online motherhood exhibition and get in touch to share your story with us. We would love to hear from you…

Top 10 Teacher’s Gift Guide 2023

By
The Well Clinic
-
teacher

Say thank you to your favourite teacher with these end-of-year teacher’s gifts: from unique homeware gifts and accessories to aromatic candles and personalised tote bags. The choice is yours!

Stand out from the ordinary with gifts and homeware Catkin Tree Studio

teacher

Looking for unique gifts for the end of term? Look no further than Catkin Tree Studio for fresh and stylish homeware, accessories and stationery – designed in Oxfordshire and made in the UK.

All our products feature original artworks exclusively painted by Ruth Harris, and are only available through our boutique website and selected independent retailers in Oxfordshire. We believe in creating the perfect pairing of beautiful designs with high-quality products, with great sustainability credentials such as using organic cotton and sustainably sourced wood.

The artwork at Catkin Tree Studios sets us apart and means our products aren’t just any ordinary homewares or accessories. We have curious, creative and playful designs (such as our cat-themed pieces), through to understated and elegant designs (such as our lavender-themed collection). Our “Currant Affairs” artwork (featured) would make a fantastic and unique thank-you card for English or Politics teachers, or anyone who loves a pun!

New and exciting products and artworks are being added to our range regularly, and all orders are wrapped in presentation tissue before being packed with care and dispatched to you.

Visit Catkin Tree Studio today and find your unique style!

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Perfect Teacher Gifts from Don’t Buy Her Flowers

teacher

Thoughtful gifting company Don’t Buy Her Flowers have the perfect gifts to say a big “Thank You” to your child’s teachers and carers at the end of term.  You can curate a thoughtful gift full of items they’ll love with the bespoke create-your-own Care Package, or choose from a ready-made selection of handpicked goodies, all beautifully packaged up and ready to go. Every gift comes with a handwritten note for that extra personalised touch.

Founder Steph Douglas started Don’t Buy Her Flowers back in 2014, having had the idea when she was inundated with flowers after her first baby. The beautiful bouquets were all well-meant, but feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and leaky, Steph wondered if it was possible to put together something that would offer a bit more TLC.

The company started as gifts for new mums, but now covers men, children and teens – and of course Teachers – and any occasion including birthdays, bereavement, pregnancy. They have also worked with Stand Up To Cancer on a package for anyone going through cancer.

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Rosemary & Ridgway

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We’re sisters, Vanessa and Katie.  We pour our passion for candle-making and crafting the perfect scent into our bespoke range of candles. Constantly evolving as we’re inspired by new scents or fresh twists on tried and tested favourites, our carefully curated collection ranges from classic florals through to more unisex minerals.

Having found our core collection of fragrances, we have now expanded our range to include soaps, lotions, diffusers and room & linen sprays.  We are very socially aware, and use as many recycled and recyclable vessels and packaging as possible, to minimise our impact on the planet.

We’d love to share our bestselling Teacher’s gift which is our Rosemary & Ridgway Gift Set, which comes in a variety of our most popular scents:

A 150g candle which comes in our classic white glass jar with our bespoke Rosemary & Ridgway wooden lid. The candle comes with a bottle of our matches (x15) presented in a lovely kraft gift box.

Each of our candles is hand poured using a 100% plant-based soy & coconut wax.

We would love to offer Kensington mums readers a 15% off discount on our website, using the code: KENMUMS15.

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Not An Ordinary Accessory (NAOA)

teacher

It’s easy to accidentally damage your glasses or sunnies, especially when most traditional storage cases are too bulky and inconvenient to have on the go, or even in the classroom. That’s why Not An Ordinary Accessory (NAOA) came up with their Apple-Leather Slim Glasses Case, the perfect solution for keeping your glasses clean and safe that won’t take up precious real estate in your bag or jacket pocket when out and about.

Made of 100% vegan apple leather, this slimline glasses case is perfect for popping in your pocket and keeping your glasses safe and scratch-free.

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The Biskery – Best Teacher Biscuits

teacher

The Biskery is a Leeds-based bespoke biscuit company created by two co-founders using a secret recipe passed down through generations to design branded and personalised biscuits for a range of occasions.

The Biskery’s Best Teacher Biscuit Box (£20.95) contains a wonderful spread of delicious jam sandwich biscuits impressed and decorated with thank you messages that are perfect for the special teacher who supported you through the year.

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Personalised Insulated Teacher Travel Mug

teacher

Personalise this travel mug with the look of your favourite teacher to create a truly original thank you gift.

Choose from two different styles of travel mugs both keep drinks hot and allow the teachers to carry their drinks safely through busy corridors.

Perfect for the teacher that is always on the move and let’s be realistic that is mostly all of them!

As they have a face and name on it is also the perfect deterrent for the staff room mug thief!

To personalise your own teacher thank you gift select a hairstyle, hair, skin and lip colour from the drop-down menus.

To further personalise and add a unique touch you can choose from a selection of stylish workwear clothing to create the essence of your teacher. We do designs for both male and female teachers.

Then choose the teacher name that you would like to be printed on to the insulated travel mug.

Please note this is a bespoke hand-designed product and due to a variation in screen colours, there may be a slight difference in the print on the travel mug.

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Personalised Teacher Thank You Notebook

teacher

This notebook is the perfect present for teachers and teaching assistants. Say thank you with a gift that will be used all year!

This is a luxury A5 lined notebook with a moleskin feel cover. A gift that will love and appreciate something useful and different.

Choose to add a seed plantable card made from recycled cotton, the perfect addition to the notebook or a standard 290gsm card. Both can be personalised with the same name as on your notebook or just with the “Thank You for Helping Me Grow” quote. You can also add a gift box, for a luxurious finish, simply choose your option on the given dropdowns.

This wildflower design has been hand drawn by myself and made into our newest “Wildflower range” The floral design also features butterflies, bees and ladybirds.

Add a stylish gift box to finish off your gift, choose from Kraft brown or white. Choose which colour ribbon you would like to have tied neatly in a bow around the box, making it ready to give as soon as it is delivered.

Single notebooks will be sent as a large letter so they can fit through your door – so no more waiting in for the postman.

All of our products are wrapped in eco-friendly packaging, we use paper bubble wrap, reuse packaging wherever possible, paper tape and recycled boxes for the safe arrival of all our products in packaging without all the unnecessary waste.

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Personalised Teacher Bookmark

teacher

What better way to say thank you to your favourite teacher than with our personalised handmade bookmarks?

Choose your wording, wire colour and whether you would like an apple icon or not.

All bookmarks come with a grey silk rope ribbon as standard and are lovingly wrapped in tissue paper & boxed making them perfect gifts.

Wire colour options are Champagne, Black, Copper, Silver, Gold, Pink & Blue. Colours shown in the images are Champagne & Black.

Don’t forget to check your spelling as the order will be made as written (& your teacher won’t be best pleased!)

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Rainbow personalised plant pot for Teacher

teacher

Rain or shine personalised plant pot gift for teacher… Unique and on-trend, our lovely Rainbow planter will brighten any school desk.

Be top of the class with this unique and thoughtful gift to treasure – add your Teacher’s name for that special personal touch.

A great gift for teachers at the end of term or the Christmas holidays.

Don’t forget your TA! Teaching assistants will love this cheerful plant pot.

Why not select seeds from the drop-down menu to create a “grow your own” gift they’ll love?

The example text reads ” (Teacher’s name) thank you for being there rain or shine” (Love from child’s name), or you can add a special message of your own. – simply type in the full text in the box provided that you’d like us to print on the pot.

*******Please note shorter messages work best for clarity and print production.*******

Perfect for small house plants and succulents.

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Personalised Best Teacher Bag

teacher

A personalised best teacher bag designed especially for end-of-term thank yous! Perfect for putting a smile on your child’s favourite teacher’s face.

These useful fold-away bags make a really lovely keepsake. Simply enter the name and message you would like on the front of the bag, these make a great gift for anyone: a nursery worker, a music teacher, dance teacher, lollipop lady, teaching assistant, tutor, swimming coach, childminder or art teacher – you tell us who you want to send it to and we will personalise it as you want.

We also offer a heavier duty canvas bag – which is great for lots of books.

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How can you use the Summer to prepare for the 11+?

What’s on: Summer of Historical Walks at Marble Arch

By
The Well Clinic
-
Marble Arch

Josh Nash Returns for Summer of Historical Walks at Marble Arch

Marble Arch London BID has launched a series of free character-led tours of Marble Arch with its iconic architect John Nash.

Discover Marble Arch will allow visitors to find out more about the fascinating history of the Grade II listed monument, as well as this corner of London’s association with Royal processions, free speech, and protests. The character-led walks will also take you past the site of the Tyburn tree, home to gruesome executions, and Speakers’ Corner, a site renowned for passionate speeches which have helped shape British history.

The series of tours will run from 18 July to 19 August, and form part of Westminster City Council’s Inside Out programme which showcases free live performances, outdoor exhibitions, sculpture trails, walking tours, installations, and pop-up activities across Central London.

The walks begin at the Marble Arch monument and last one hour. Westminster City Council’s Inside Out programme covers the tours in August, but Marble Arch London BID have added a series of extra dates in July in order to ensure as many people as possible can experience these unique tours.

A programme of special access walks are also planned for Wednesday 2 August and Wednesday 9 August at 10.30am, which will be step-free and shorter, allowing those with reduced mobility to enjoy this fantastic experience.

Marble Arch

Kay Buxton, Chief Executive, Marble Arch London BID, comments: “We are excited to be partnering with Westminster City Council to launch a series of immersive, character-led tours across this historic part of London over the summer holiday period. Discover Marble Arch will offer visitors – young and old – a memorable visit to London and will take in multiple sites where they can learn about the roles these sites have played in British history.

“We are also pleased these tours will form part of the Inside Out festival as this offers visitors a free and accessible way to experience London’s art, cultural and historic sites, and we hope it will encourage more people to visit Marble Arch and experience everything the area has to offer including our excellent array of local restaurants, cafes, and pubs.”

Cllr Jessica Toale, Deputy Cabinet Member – Culture, Heritage, and the Arts, added: “We’re delighted to welcome back the Inside Out Festival for 2023. It’s an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the best of Westminster’s world-class cultural offering, for free, in the height of the summer. This year we hope to welcome even more visitors to the fantastic events on offer, including the Marble Arch London BID character-led walking tours.”

Discover Marble Arch will run from 18 July to 19 August, tickets are free and can be booked online. Those looking to book a spot on the special access tours, please email community@marble-arch.london.

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Check your Skin: 5 Things to Look For and How to Protect your Children’s Skin

By
The Well Clinic
-
skin moles

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, but treatable if detected early. Self check-ups play their part. Here’s what to keep an eye on – and how to protect kids too.

Check for changes in your skin

Look for anything new, changing, or unusual:

  1. A new growth that’s pearly, transparent, brown, black, or multi-coloured
  2. A mole, birthmark or brown spot which has changed in size, shape or colour. See ‘New or changing moles’ below for more details
  3. A spot that continues to itch, hurt, scab or bleed
  4. An open sore that doesn’t heal within three weeks
  5. A mole that looks different from the rest

New or changing moles

With moles, follow the ‘ABCDE’ rules:

Asymmetry – the two halves of a mole may differ in shape

Border – the edges may be irregular or blurred, and sometimes show notches

Colour – it may be uneven. Different shades of brown, black or pink may be visible

Diameter – most skin cancer melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. Report any changes to your doctor

Expert – if in doubt, get it checked. Your GP can help or book directly with our dermatology doctors in Kensington who have 20 years’ experience in diagnosing skin cancer. Contact us here.

skin moles
Helen Wyre and Dr Cherry Armstrong (Co-Founders)

How to do a self-exam

Grab a hand-held mirror, stand in front of a full-length mirror, and check the following:

  • Nose, lips, mouth, and the front and back of the ears
  • Part hair into sections and use the hand-held mirror to reflect into the full-length mirror
  • Palms and backs, between fingers and under fingernails. Continue up the wrists, and examine the front and back of forearms
  • Standing in front of the full-length mirror, begin at the elbows and scan all sides of the upper arms, including underneath
  • Focus on the neck, chest and torso. Lift breasts to check underneath
  • Upper back. With your back to the full-length mirror, use the hand-held mirror to inspect the back of the neck, shoulders, upper back, and the back of your upper arms not visible in step 4
  • Lower back. Still using both mirrors, scan the lower back, bum and backs of both legs
  • Sit down, then prop each leg in turn on a stool or chair. Use the hand-held mirror to examine the genitals. Check the front and sides of both legs, thigh to shin. The finish with ankles and feet, including the soles, toes and nails (without nail polish)

Dermatologists recommend you do this once a month. If you’ve never checked your skin before, so are unsure of what’s new or changed, book an examination with a dermatologist.  In any case, the Skin Cancer Foundation advises doing a skin check annually.

To protect your skin

It is best to find shade, wear a wide-brimmed hat and slap on the Factor 50 when you’re out in summer. The gold standard is to re-apply every two hours. We like to throw the SPF in our handbag/kids’ bag and top it up every time we visit the bathroom. This will protect against skin cancer, and premature ageing.

skin moles

Protect Children’s Skin

We’re often better at applying sunscreen to kids than ourselves. It is important to use factor 50 and teach kids the importance of sun protection from a young age.

You can teach shade-seeking, sun-protective clothing and sunscreen habits from infancy, and the importance of self-exams when children start dressing themselves. Tanning beds are shown to significantly increase skin cancer risk so it is important to advise children to avoid tanning salons during the teenage years.

The risk of developing skin cancer as a minor is slim, but the UV damage you get during the childhood years is a significant risk factor for the disease to develop during adulthood. Keep kids’ skin healthy by teaching them good sun protection measures from an early age.

skin molesIf you have concerns over a changing or new mole, book with your GP or with us right away so it can be checked quickly.

Download this advice as a pdf so you can spread the word.

Good skin days, always.

No. 23 Skin, 23 Ansdell St, W8 5BN, 02039411815

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Win a pair of Pip and Henry Shoes | Competition

By
The Well Clinic
-
pip and henry

Driven by a love for the environment, Pip & Henry create beautifully stylish, comfortable and responsibly produced shoes for children.  Our playful footwear is podiatrist approved, made from sustainable materials, and can be recycled when outgrown.   Better yet, if recycled, you will receive £10 off your next order.

Winning Prize

A pair of Pip and Henry Shoes (Shoes Valued up to £79.00)

How to enter
      • To be in with a chance to WIN this competition simply:
      • Fill in the Rafflecopter widget below to verify your entries
      • Please read full terms & conditions below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms and Conditions

  1. All entries MUST BE subscribed with www.kensingtonmums.co.uk newsletter
  2. This prize draw is open to UK residents aged 18 years or over.
  3. Only one entry per person
  4. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative
  5. Participants must follow competition widget entries.
  6. Kensington Mums will contact the prize winner via email. If the winner does not reply within 24 hours, Kensington Mums will select another winner.
  7. Competition open 5th July 2023 until 21st July 2023
  8. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
  9. One pair of shoes will be given to the winner.
  10. Shoes Valued up to £79.00 subject to availability
  11. Subscribe to https://pipandhenry.com/ newsletter

 

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