As Donna Ockenden’s latest maternity report is published this week, scrutiny of England’s maternity services is once again in sharp focus.

For Michelle Welsh MP, the government’s first maternity adviser, this is not abstract policy. It is personal.

When she speaks about safety, compassion and accountability, she does so not only as a politician, but as a mother whose own traumatic birth experience left her believing both she and her baby might die.

Now, after years of campaigning alongside families affected by maternity failures, Michelle has been appointed to help shape the future of services across England. For her, the role carries both responsibility and urgency.

Speaking to Mother&Baby, she shared the experience that first drove her to speak out, why she believes women are still not being listened to, and why she believes the findings of the Ockenden report must finally lead to action - not another document “left on a shelf”.

The birth experience that changed everything

Michelle was under consultant-led care at Nottingham City Hospital during her pregnancy due to a combination of risk factors, including a concave womb, gestational diabetes and a breech baby. A planned caesarean section had been booked, but her son Billy had other ideas.

When contractions began early, she repeatedly contacted the hospital, concerned that something wasn't right.

Despite being advised by her consultant to contact the maternity unit immediately if labour appeared to start, Michelle says her concerns were repeatedly dismissed when she rang to inform the hospital.

"I said I'm in a lot of pain. I'm really sure these are contractions. I'm really, really worried now," she recalls.

Eventually, after her waters broke, she and her partner drove straight to hospital. What followed has stayed with her ever since.

Medical staff initially struggled to monitor Billy's heartbeat. Michelle says some staff were unaware he was in a breech position because they had not checked her notes. As labour progressed, she became increasingly frightened.

"Billy was barely moving and I was frightened. I thought that he'd died," she says.

A more experienced midwife eventually intervened, challenging the decision to delay her caesarean section. Looking back, Michelle believes that intervention was crucial.

"It wasn't a protocol or a system that saved my baby's life. It was luck that came with a midwife that could stand up for herself."

She continues: "That is the crux of the matter, isn't it? It wasn't a protocol or a system. It was a midwife that came into the room that had the ability to do that."

Billy was delivered by emergency caesarean section and required treatment immediately after birth after being deprived of oxygen. Michelle herself experienced complications and lost consciousness shortly afterwards.

"To this day I don't know what happened to me, because it's not in any of my notes," she says.

The trauma did not end there. Lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic meant her partner was unable to remain with her on the postnatal ward. Michelle says she became terrified to sleep after waking to find Billy covered in his own sick despite being told he would be monitored due to low blood sugar.

"I was in there for 48 hours, and I never closed my eyes again."

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From traumatised mother to campaigner

For a long time, Michelle believed she was alone in what she had experienced. The impact of her birth trauma followed her home.

“I couldn’t walk into a supermarket without having a panic attack,” she says, describing how bright lights and large spaces triggered memories of the hospital.

Things changed when she became a county councillor and attended a maternity scrutiny meeting involving senior figures from Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.

As Michelle listened to reassurances that services were safe, something did not sit right with her: "I spoke up about my experience and what had happened to me."

After speaking publicly, messages from other families began flooding in. "The floodgates opened, and I got emails from hundreds of families about what happened to them."

Reading their stories transformed her understanding of what had happened. "It didn't take me long to see that I was so lucky. So many women didn't have that luck."

Why women still aren't being heard

Years later, after speaking to hundreds of families across the country, Michelle says one issue comes up more than any other - not being listened to. She believes too many women are still having concerns dismissed during pregnancy and labour.

She says women repeatedly describe raising concerns - about pain, reduced movements, something "not feeling right" - only to be dismissed.

Michelle argues that many devastating outcomes could have been avoided if concerns had simply been taken seriously.

"On so many occasions, what was actually a really terrible outcome could have been avoided if there was more stopping and listening."

Another issue she repeatedly hears about is the lack of continuity of care.

"There is no relationship between mother and midwife. Ten or 15 midwives can be involved in one woman's journey from the moment that she becomes pregnant."

As a result, Michelle says important details about women's needs, support networks and circumstances can easily be lost.

Cultural issues and racial disparities

But listening, she says, is not experienced equally.

Black and Asian women continue to face significantly poorer maternity outcomes in the UK - something she believes cannot be separated from deeper cultural issues within parts of the system.

"There’s a cultural issue within the NHS," Michelle says candidly. "We have to be prepared to challenge perceptions, bias, discrimination and racism."

She believes continuity of care could help, particularly for women from ethnic minority backgrounds, by ensuring they have a known advocate who understands their family set-up, needs and circumstances.

But Michelle is clear that individual advocacy alone will not fix structural problems: "An acknowledgement that it is happening is long overdue.”

While she stresses that many midwives and doctors provide "exceptional care", she believes the system must confront uncomfortable truths if outcomes are to improve.

From reports to action

England’s maternity services have faced repeated reviews over the past decade. Michelle is determined that this moment must be different: "We cannot have any more reviews that sit on the shelf. We have to take action."

Her role involves bringing together families, campaigners, the Royal College of Midwives and frontline staff to decide what meaningful change looks like - and ensuring those changes are implemented.

“It’s about mothers having a voice, babies having a voice as well, even unborn babies.”

Michelle wants a system that delivers both safety and compassion: "One doesn’t come without the other."

Safer staffing is central to that. But she emphasises that staffing solutions cannot be "one size fits all". with different communities and maternity units facing different pressures and health inequalities.

The overlooked importance of postnatal care

Michelle believes conversations about maternity care too often stop once a baby is born.

"No, it never has done," she says when asked whether postnatal care receives enough attention nationally. "Having a baby doesn't stop the minute that you give birth."

She believes continuity of care after birth could help improve breastfeeding support, mental health care and outcomes for families recovering from traumatic births.

"For a lot of women, the trauma actually happens after."

Her message to pregnant women

When asked what advice she would give a woman who feels her concerns are not being listened to, Michelle's answer is immediate.

"My advice would be to, wherever possible, ensure that you've got an advocate."

She does, however, acknowledge that women should not have to rely on someone else to help them be heard: "It breaks my heart that I have to say that."

Yet she also understands how vulnerable women can feel during labour and birth.

"My most vulnerable moment was when my contractions started, and my ability to be able to defend myself, as much as I tried, was really, really difficult."

A movement, not a campaign

Looking ahead, Michelle says success for her would mean more than improving statistics. She wants women to feel listened to, cared for and supported throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond.

"We cannot live in a society where families, and particularly women and mothers, have to keep getting up over and over again talking about the most horrendous experience in their life before people sit up and notice."

Ultimately, she believes maternity safety has become something bigger than a political issue.

"I do believe that this isn't a campaign anymore. I believe it's a movement." And at the heart of that movement is a simple belief.

"Women and babies actually deserve so much better."

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

In the UK, Black families face significantly higher rates of baby loss than their white counterparts. Black babies are twice as likely to be stillborn, and neonatal mortality rates are more than 50–75 per cent higher. Black women are also 43 per cent more likely to experience miscarriage. For many, these are deeply troubling statistics. But for others, they are a lived reality.

Behind the percentages are parents who have prepared nurseries, chosen names and imagined futures, only to leave hospital with empty arms. The data tells us there is a disparity but it doesn't tell us what it feels like to live through it.

Across the country, maternity units are grappling with rising demand and limited capacity. Midwives describe working double shifts, unsafe working hours and navigating administrative pressures that leave little room for continuity of care. In those conditions, even the most dedicated professionals can find themselves firefighting rather than fully listening to mothers in need.

While individual bias and communication gaps must be addressed, they sit within a broader landscape of systemic fragility. For Black women, who statistically face poorer outcomes, the pressure points in the system are not abstract. They are felt in delayed referrals, fragmented care and the emotional labour of having to self-advocate, sometimes repeatedly, to be heard.

When Alicia Burnett lost her six month old son, Micaiah-Jelani in 2017, she became one of those statics. But as a midwife as well as a mother, she could see the crisis from both sides of the system. “Black families are more likely to experience all forms of baby loss,” she says. “Whatever data you look at, we are always the most likely. But when I lost my son, I didn’t see myself reflected in the support groups or materials. I felt invisible in my grief.”

That sense of invisibility, in campaigns, in services, in conversations about loss, is something many Black women describe. And it raises a difficult question: if those most affected do not feel seen, how can they feel properly supported?

Determined to make the change she saw was so desperately needed, Alicia founded Black Baby Loss Awareness Week. A space for bereaved black parents to speak openly about their babies, their trauma and the care they received. And it is about confronting the uncomfortable truth that awareness without action risks becoming performative.

For Alicia, the goal has always been bigger than a campaign. She wants to challenge and educate the systems that allow such stark disparities to persist. “There’s a difference between being tokenistic and transformative,” she says. “We don’t just need representation in the room. We need change in the outcomes.”

After years of impactful Black Baby Loss Awareness Weeks, the movement has now evolved into a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), a significant step that signals both growth and long‑term commitment. What began as a grassroots response to personal grief has become a structured organisation focused on advocacy, education and systemic change.

This year, we were privileged to attend the Black Baby Loss Webinar, joining medical professionals, campaigners and members of the public to confront the stark realities of Black baby loss. The discussion was both sobering and necessary. Clinicians shared current data and reflections from practice, while bereaved parents spoke candidly about their experiences of care, communication and grief.

Now, with the support of filmmaker Lennina Ofori, the movement has taken its work a step further, producing a powerful documentary featuring seven women who have experienced baby loss. The hope is that the film will act as a catalyst, deepening the impact of Black Baby Loss Awareness Week and driving the conversation from awareness into action.

The documentary is designed not simply to be watched by the public, but to be used as a training tool and prompt for reflection within maternity services and beyond. By placing lived experience at the centre, it challenges institutions to move past broad commitments to equality and examine how disparities are playing out in practice.

For Lennina, the problem with statistics is not that they are wrong, it is that they are incomplete. “Numbers can create desensitisation,” she says. “You hear that Black babies are more likely to die, and it becomes a headline. But what does that actually look like for a mother? For a family? For a community?”

Through her work documenting lived experiences of loss, Lennina has seen how easily human stories are flattened into data points. The clinical language of “adverse outcomes” and “mortality rates” rarely captures the shock of an emergency delivery, the silence of a hospital room, or the long months of navigating grief while the world carries on.

“The statistics tell us there is a crisis,” she says. “But they don’t tell us what it feels like to sit in that crisis.”

For many of the women she has spoken to, loss is compounded by a feeling of not being heard, concerns dismissed, symptoms minimised, intuition questioned. Even when care is compassionate, the broader system can feel distant and overstretched. And when disparities are framed purely as data, it becomes easier to debate them than to confront them.

Lennina believes storytelling shifts that dynamic. “When someone tells you what happened to them, in their own words, you can’t look away in the same way,” she says. “It demands accountability.”

Together, their work underscores a shared truth: awareness begins with naming the disparity, but change begins with listening to those living through it.

About the author

Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.

So, you’ve booked the accommodation and the flight, and now all that’s left to think about is how to transport your little one while you’re away. If you're planning to hire a car or use taxis, you might want to consider taking your own travel car seat so you're not reliant on a rental provided by car hire and taxi companies. The quality of car seats provided by rental companies can vary, but small children may also find it more comforting to have a familiar car seat – especially if you arrive late at night or in a totally different time zone.

If you are planning to take your own car seat, it's worth considering whether it can also be taken on the plane as hand luggage, or used on the aeroplane (and strapped into the plane seat) which can make life easier when you're flying with your baby. They'll be safely strapped-in in case there's turbulence, but it’ll also leave you free to eat and read rather than holding them for the entire flight. Of course, the downside to this is that you’ll have to pay for your baby to have their own seat which isn’t legally required until the age of two, and remember that babies shouldn't be in a car seat for extended periods. More on this in our FAQs below.

When looking for a car seat specifically for travel you may see some phrases such as IATA or FAA approved pop up, so what does it actually mean? We've broken it all down for you, so you can decide on the best travel car seat for your child.

What is an FAA approved car seat?

There are various bodies that determine whether a car seat is airline approved, depending which country you're travelling in and which airline you're flying with. Therefore, your first step should always be to contact your airline and ask if your car seat is approved for use onboard.

FAA: The FAA approves car seats for use when travelling on a US airline. An FAA-approved car seat is a car seat that meets the Federal Aviation Administration's safety standards for use on airplanes. This ensures the car seat sits neatly in the plane seat and can be secured properly. If you're wondering how to check if a car seat is FAA approved, check for a label that says "certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft". If a car seat is not FAA approved, it may need to be checked as baggage.

TÜV: TÜV approved car seats are generally approved for travel across Europe and will have an airline approved car seat sticker saying "For use in Aircraft".

CAA: The UK equivalent of the FAA, the CAA doesn't offer specific approval for car seats or have an airline approved car seat sticker, but does recognise other bodies, including the FAA and TÜV in its advice on airline approved car seats.

What is an IATA approved car seat?

When car seats are listed as “IATA approved,” they usually mean a child car seat that is approved for use on aircraft. However, this wording is technically inaccurate because the International Air Transport Association (IATA) does not certify or approve child car seats.

What airlines are typically looking for is a car seat that has either FAA approval, EASA / ETSO-C100 approval, or certain UN ECE R44 or R129 child seats that also carry an additional “For Use in Aircraft”.

Being IATA approved doesn't guarantee you'll be able to take your car seat on board as hand luggage either - every airline sets its own specific dimensions, weight limits, and sometimes even aircraft-dependent size rules. So, always check with your airline provider before assuming you'll be able to take it on board.

What travel car seats do provide is a more travel-friendly option with foldable designs that take up less space and are more portable. They're ideal for jumping in taxis, for bringing along to use in hire cars, and some can even be used on the plane. Here are some of the best travel car seats available now.

The best travel car seats

How to find a car seat to take on an aeroplane

If you have booked your little one a seat and want to take a car seat on the plane, there are a few factors to consider:

1. Is it an airline approved car seat? You'll need to check for an airline approved car seat sticker such as one from the FAA or TUV. It should also be certified as R129 or ECE R44-04.

2. Size: As well as the above, it must be the right size to fit in an airline seat. Most airlines specify a car seat width of less than 43cm (17") but as airline seat widths vary, you should call the airline you'll be flying with (or airlines if you have connecting flights) and confirm that your seat will fit.

3. Weight: As you'll be carrying the car seat on and off the plane, you'll need to be sure you can carry it along with the rest of your luggage! The lighter the better when it comes to bringing a car seat on the plane.

4. Age and height: Airlines have different rules so, for instance, children aged 2 and over can use a car seat onboard British Airways, but not onboard Virgin Atlantic. Make sure you know the rules and requirements for the airline you're travelling with.

5. Fittings: In general, a car seat is only approved for use on the plane if can be fitted using the plane's seat belt. This means that any seat that can only be fitted with a three-point harness will not be permitted. If you're planning to use a car seat on the aeroplane and at your destination, take the time to figure out if you will be able to strap it in if there are no ISO fix fittings on the car you hire or the taxis you use.

About the author

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

Like many parents, I thought I was keeping my children safe by using one of the best car seats on the market. But as I listened to experts and researchers at the recent Child & Safety Conference in Gothenburg, I realised I was falling scarily short in so many ways.

The conference, hosted by car seat brand Axkid at the striking World of Volvo venue, brought together researchers, clinicians, and industry figures to take stock of where child road safety stands – and the picture, despite some extraordinary progress, is not entirely reassuring.

Parents are losing the knowledge their children's lives depend on

Before the research presentations began, we were shown the results of a survey carried out by Axkid and insurer Volvia earlier this year. In 2020, five per cent of Swedish parents said they were unfamiliar with child car seat guidelines. By 2025, that figure had risen to 15 per cent – three times as many. Only 38 per cent of parents surveyed could correctly identify the earliest age at which a child should move to a forward-facing seat.

For a country that has spent decades building a global reputation for child road safety, the numbers were surprising. Anna Carlsson, researcher at Chalmers Industriteknik, noted that child safety has to be an ongoing conversation. "New generations of parents need access to this knowledge," she said. "We cannot take awareness for granted. Continuous education is essential if we want to maintain the safety leadership Sweden has built over many decades."

But it's a warning that resonates well beyond Scandinavia. In Britain, according to data from the AA, around 22 children are killed on the roads every year, with many more seriously injured. If knowledge gaps are opening up even in Sweden, the question for UK parents is: what do we actually know?

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The rear-facing rule that could save your child's life

The answer that came back repeatedly throughout the conference was this: keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible.

Research presented by Maria Klingegård, Traffic Safety Researcher at Folksam, was particularly eye-opening. "We see that an alarmingly high proportion of children involved in fatal crashes were either completely unrestrained or not travelling in rear-facing car seats" she said. "Our analysis shows that approximately half of the children aged 0–3 who lost their lives could have survived if they had been travelling rear-facing."

It was one of several moments during the day that made the room noticeably still. Klingegård's study, carried out with colleagues at Chalmers Industriteknik and Volvo Cars, drew on three decades of Swedish crash data. Its findings on the survival rates of children travelling rear-facing versus forward-facing were unambiguous. "Keeping children rear-facing for as long as possible remains the single most important factor in protecting children in vehicles," she said.

Experts, including leading safety body ROSPA, recommend rear-facing until at least age three or four – and ideally up to age seven, if the seat allows. One of the most persistent myths in car seat safety is the idea that a child has outgrown their rear-facing seat when their legs look bent or cramped. They haven't. Leg room is not a safety consideration. The direction of travel is.

Can the UK learn from Sweden?

There was pride in the room too, and successes that the UK could learn from. In 2021, not a single child under the age of 15 died in a passenger car on Swedish roads – a historic first. Since the 1960s and 1970s, child road fatalities in Sweden have fallen by 92 per cent, largely driven by the development and widespread adoption of rear-facing travel.

"This achievement is evidence that Sweden's long-term approach to road safety has been effective," said Carlsson. But the message from almost every speaker was the same: this is not the moment to ease off.

And for those of us from the UK, it was hard to ignore just how much catching up we have to do. In Sweden, 83% of 2-3 year olds travel in a rear-facing car seat. But in the UK, this number drops to 22%, despite evidence showing that rear-facing seats are up to five times safer. If there was one key takeaway from the Child & Safety Conference 2026, it's that keeping our children in rear-facing car seats for as long as possible is one of the best, and easiest, ways to keep them safe on the roads.

About the author

Rebecca Lancaster is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby, drawing on eleven years of parenting her two children to help others navigate their own parenting journey. As a freelance writer, she spent ten years working with leading lifestyle brands, from travel companies to food and drink start-ups, and writing everything from hotel reviews to guides to the best British cheeses. She’s particularly interested in travel and introducing her children to the excitement of visiting new places, trying different foods (less successfully) and experiencing different cultures.

With Disney and Pixar's Toy Story 5 arriving in cinemas on June 19th, 2026, it's understandable that there's a little bit of magic in the air, and for many mums, myself included, it'll feel like a full-circle moment.

More than 30 years after Woody and Buzz first burst onto our screens, most of the children who once sat cross-legged in front of a TV clutching their favourite toys are now parents themselves, and are introducing a new generation to the magic of Andy's toy box.

As a mum of three, I can't help but feel emotional about this one. I grew up with Toy Story and I was once just like Andy, creating entire worlds from a handful of toys, completely convinced they came to life the moment I left the room. Now, I'm raising Bonnies, watching my own children form attachments to their favourite toys, invent stories and adventures, and experience the same wonder I did all those years ago.

That's part of the reason anticipation for Toy Story 5 is so high. The latest instalment sees Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the gang facing a challenge that feels relevant to modern families: technology and screen time for kids. As Bonnie becomes captivated by a new smart device called Lilypad, her beloved toys are left competing for her attention, exploring the growing tension between screen time and imaginative play.

Toy Story has always celebrated the idea that toys are more than just objects. They're companions, comforters and drivers for creativity. Whether your child dreams of blasting off into space with Buzz Lightyear, or rounding up adventures with Woody and Jessie, there's something incredibly special about sharing a film that shaped your own childhood with the little people shaping yours.

Best Toy Story 5 toys

If Toy Story 5 has inspired your child to create their own adventures away from the screen, you're in the right place. From interactive figures to cuddly plush toys, and even cute little outfits, we've rounded up the very best Toy Story toys for kids.

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Samantha is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three aged nine, four and 1 years old. She loves planning fun family days out, trips and adventures. She also loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

Some people carry a quiet radiance, the kind that brightens a room the moment they enter it. Chynna Carby has that kind of light. Her smile is so infectious that you wouldn't immediately know that she carries the grief of baby loss every day. Yet out of that grief, Chynna created something deeply meaningful: The Shia Family.

Chynna lost her first baby, Shia, at 24 weeks pregnant. He weighed just 550 grams. “Although my baby isn’t here, I’m still his mother,” she says gently. “I just mother him in a different way.”

Shia lived only a short time after he was born, but that time reshaped her life forever. “His life was so short, but it’s had the biggest impact on mine,” she says. In the quiet aftermath of loss, Chynna found herself navigating a grief that felt isolating. Well-meaning comments like “You can have another one” cut deeper than people realise. But it was in that darkness that Chynna learned of her own strength.

From that devastation, something unexpected began to grow. Determined that Shia’s name would never be forgotten, Chynna channelled her pain into purpose. “I don’t want his story to end with tragedy,” she says. “Joy has still come out of it.”

Today, her motherhood is woven into everything she does, in the way she speaks about healing, in the safe spaces she helps create for other bereaved parents, and in the small, tender details that honour her son’s memory.

Through The Shia Family, Chynna has donated 50 memory boxes to the Birmingham Women's Hospital for parents leaving the hospital with empty arms, ensuring they have something tangible to hold onto in those first devastating days. The charity also provides weighted bears made to match a baby’s birth weight, a small but powerful comfort that can be ordered online. “When I held my son, he weighed 550 grams,” she explains. “Being able to feel that weight again, that’s something people don’t realise is so important. It says: ‘This is exactly how much he weighed. He was here.’”

Beyond keepsakes, The Shia Family hosts creative workshops and safe spaces where the whole family can speak openly about their children without fear of making others uncomfortable. There are no platitudes, no rushed conversations. Just space to say their baby’s name. “I shouldn’t feel like I can’t say my son’s name because it makes someone else uncomfortable,” Chynna says. “In this space, you can say their name as many times as you need to.”

The community uplifts families who often feel unseen, including Black parents who may have experienced disparities in maternity care or felt unheard during pregnancy. Chynna also serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Black Baby Loss Awareness CIC, which advocates for support for black families navigating baby loss.

As part of the Black Baby Loss Awareness Advisory Board, she helped organise eight awareness walks in cities across the country this year. She facilitated a 5K “Walk and Talk” designed to bring together bereaved parents and supporters in a safe, supportive space. While organised through Black Baby Loss Awareness, the event was open to everyone and welcomed families of all backgrounds, not just Black parents.

At its heart, The Shia Family is about continuing motherhood, even after loss. Every workshop, every care package, every conversation is an extension of that love. Grief, she says, doesn’t move in a straight line. “It comes in waves. But you may feel lonely, you are not alone.”

What Chynna has built is more than a support network; it is a legacy. A reminder that even the shortest lives can leave the deepest imprint. Through The Shia Family, Shia’s name is spoken every day not only in sorrow, but in solidarity, healing and hope.

Where can you get support for a baby loss?

The most important thing to remember after the loss of a baby at any stage of pregnancy is that your grief is valid, and it is okay to mourn your loss. You are not alone. Support is available, and there are many organisations, charities, and helplines that can provide comfort, guidance, and understanding during this difficult time.

Miscarriage UK

Miscarriage UK is the leading charity supporting people affected by miscarriage, ectopic and molar pregnancy. They run a staffed support line, with telephone, live chat and direct messaging, and offer online and in-person peer support groups.

They work with expert clinicians to provide free patient information and improve early pregnancy care through training and resources for health professionals. They also support employers to improve workplace support and advocate for greater awareness and change across healthcare, society and employment.

Call**:** 0303 003 6464 **(**Mon, Tue, Thu 9am-4pm | Wed, Fri 9am-8pm

Email: info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk

Tommy's

Pregnancy charity Tommy's have a specialist midwife helpline who can support parents with any aspect of a baby loss. They can support in mental health, as well as pregnancy after loss.

Call: 0800 0147 800

Email: midwife@tommys.org

Cruse Bereavement Support

While not specifically for baby loss, Cruse Bereavement Support specialise in helping people with their grief.

Call: 0808 808 1677

Your GP

Reaching out to your local GP can help you to find more localised support groups in your area. They can also help to find appropriate care, advice and support.

You don't just have to rely on services, you can turn to loved ones for miscarriage support too.

The Shia Family

Offering personalised keepsakes and creative workshops to support grieving parents in honouring their babies.

About the author

Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier

One of the amazing parts about having kids is seeing how further and broad their minds can stretch. Little ones never fail to surprise us, especially with their make-believe scenarios, yet still managing to keep themselves amused and entertained.

Play tents or teepees are a great way to help boost children’s imaginative play. You’ll give your little one a den, and they’ll pretend to be a shopkeeper, hair stylist or a fruit and veg stall. They can embark on little magical adventures from the comfort of their own home.

And it’s not just about encouraging role play either, as a play tent can be used as a relaxing spot away from such a busy family life, or just something for you to relax in and enjoy your favourite snacks in with close ones.

Here are the very best children's play tents that'll ignite imagination in a way you didn’t know was possible.

The best children's play tents

How Mother&Baby selected the best children's play tents:

All of these fun children's play tents have been hand-selected by Mother&Baby shopping experts. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching kids’ play tents, so you can choose the best one. Plus, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

How we test and choose recommended products

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.

Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs. For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.

Samantha Ball is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three and loves searching for the best and current trending products for little ones. She loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

Do we have a summer treat for you! Whether you're planning a family holiday, preparing for sunny days out, or looking for a thoughtful summer gift for a little one, let us introduce you to Boots' brand-new Summer Days for Little One's Box.

Packed with 22 summer essentials and treats, this limited-edition box is designed to help families make the most of the season. Worth £93, it's available exclusively at Boots for just £35, meaning you'll save an impressive £58. The box itself also doubles as a fun activity, featuring a colour-in design that little ones can personalise and enjoy.

Boots Summer Days for Little One's Box

Inside, you'll discover a fantastic selection of products from trusted family favourites, including Aveeno, Ella's Kitchen, Nala's Baby, Childs Farm, My Little Coco. From sun protection and sun safe essentials to tasty snacks and bathtime must-haves, everything has been carefully chosen to make summer adventures that little bit easier. It's good value for money with so much packed inside, we don't expect it to be around for long!

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Samantha Ball is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three aged nine, four and 1 year old. She also loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

Whether you live in London or you're planning a trip to the big smoke, there are plenty of things to do in London with kids.

If you're looking for family-friendly days out to keep the kids busy in the holidays, you're spoilt for choice in London. From interactive experiences to hands-on museums, Royal parks and playgrounds, there's something for children of all ages (and their grown-ups)!

Choose from activities to get your kids outside and moving or educational experiences where they can learn valuable lessons outside the classroom.

If you're on a tight budget, you can always find something to do for free and of course, there are always extra special options if you want to splash out.

Check out our list of the best things to do in London as a family.

Fun things to do in London with kids:

North London

Kentish Town City Farm

Opened in 1972, Kentish Town City Farm was the UK's first city farm and offers everything from workshops to animal encounters. It's a local charity that helps city people connect with animals, nature and the environment and is located on a four-acre site in Camden. There are animal pasture areas, community gardens, a wildlife pond, and a riding arena which is currently being redeveloped.

Opening times: Every day from 9.00am to 5.00pm

Price: Free

ZSL London Zoo

London Zoo, in Regent's Park, is the world's oldest scientific zoo and has all the fantastic animals you'd expect - penguins, lions, tigers, gorillas, reptiles and an aquarium. They run special late-night events, stay-overs at the zoo and 'meet the animals' experiences.
Opening times: Daily, 10am - 4, 5 or 6pm depending on the time of year
Price: Adults: £31.80, Children (3-15 years): £22.20, Children under 3 years: FREE. Prices may increase during peak times

Little Angel Theatre, Islington

If the weather isn't great for outside play, why not take the fun inside for toddler theatre shows at Little Angel Theatre. There's a range of shows on over the holidays which are ideal for little ones aged 2-5+. You can also visit for the Little Angel Theatre Children’s Puppet Festival which returns from 28 July – 30 August 2026.

Opening times: According to show

Price: Varies

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Central London

Museum of Illusions

Located on Tottenham Court Road in the heart of London, the Museum of Illusions is a fun and fascinating day out that combines entertainment with hands-on learning. Packed with mind-bending exhibits, optical illusions and interactive installations, it encourages visitors of all ages to question what they see and explore how the brain interprets the world around them.

Children will love wandering through rooms that appear to defy the laws of physics, including spaces where people seem to shrink, grow or even walk on walls. The museum's holograms, mirror mazes and visual puzzles provide plenty of opportunities for laughter, curiosity and memorable family photos. Unlike traditional museums, visitors are encouraged to touch, interact and become part of the exhibits, making it particularly appealing for younger children and teenagers.

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday: 10am to 8pm, Friday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm

Price: From £19.20

Diana Memorial Playground

A huge wooden pirate ship is the amazing centrepiece of the Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground. This children's wonderland opened on the 30th June 2000, in memory of the late Princess. Located next to her Kensington Palace home, the playground is a fitting tribute for a Princess who loved the innocence of childhood. Kids love to play, explore, dash about, and let their imaginations soar in this magical space. There is a sensory trail, teepees, a beach around the pirate ship and various toys and play sculptures; all set against a lush backdrop of trees and plants. There's plenty of seating so the grownups can relax too.

Opening times: The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is currently closed for a major renewal and will reopen for Summer 2026.

Price: Free

Hyde Park

Set right in the heart of London, Hyde Park offers both world-class events and concerts together with plenty of quiet places to relax and unwind. For kids, there are wide open spaces, a playground, football pitches, horse riding and best of all, you can hire a rowing boat or pedalo to take across the famous Serpentine.

Opening times: 5am - midnight

Price: Free

London Eye

The London Eye is a must for both adults and children. Standing at 135m tall, it goes without saying that the views from this giant Ferris wheel are incredible and we don't blame you if you struggle to decide between going during the day or at sunset.

Opening times: Year round (except Christmas Day), generally 10am-8.30pm

Price online: Adults: £29, Child (2 - 15 Years): £26, Children under 2: Free (an under 2 ticket will be required when making your booking). Prices are higher if booked on the day.

Madame Tussauds

Step into the spotlight at Madame Tussauds London - the home of famous fun in the capital, established on Baker Street in 1836. Star in immersive experiences like The Voice and Star Wars and get up close and personal with more than 300 lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebs.

Opening times: Daily 9/10am - 5pm

Price from: Adult: £31, Children (2-15 years): £28, Under 2: FREE. Book online in advance for cheaper tickets.

The Original Hop on Hop off London Bus Tour

This hop on and hop off bus allows you to explore London without tiring out their little legs. The Original Tour offers a recorded commentary specifically designed to entertain and educate children. Designed for children aged 5 to 11 years old; it makes learning fun! In the meantime, adults can sit back, relax and enjoy the sights.
Opening times: Buses run between 9am-7pm and tickets are valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours

Price from: Adult: £39.20, Child (5-15): £23.20. Children under 4 are free but don't have a seat. Book online for cheaper fares.

London Transport Museum

A great place for your family to have fun together and discover the history of London’s famous transport network, the London Transport Museum is open for visiting 362 days a year. There are term-time singing and story sessions for under-5s plus fun interactive exhibits throughout.

Opening times: Daily

Price: Adult: Annual passes start from £22.50. Children and young people 17 and under: Free but need a timed entry ticket

Coram's Fields

Located in the heart of London, Coram's Fields has an exciting mix of accessible play equipment for all ages from toddlers to older children as well as plenty of space for running off steam or having a picnic. The large sandpits are open all year round while the paddling pool opens during the Spring and Summer months.

Opening times: Daily 9:00-sunset

Price: Free

South London

Science Museum

The Science Museum in South Kensington boasts a world-class collection recording scientific, technological and medical advancement from across the globe. For kids, visit the Wonderlab - inspired by the power of wonder, it enriches learning across the curriculum themes of Forces, Electricity, Light, Sound, Matter, Space and Maths. See high-energy shows, live experiments at the Chemistry Bar, live lightening demos at the giant Tesla coil with brilliant Explainers to facilitate engagement.

Opening times: Daily, 10am-6pm

Price: Free but should be pre-booked. Paid tickets are required for some events, activities, galleries and special exhibitions.

London Cable Car

Take to the skies in the UK's first and only urban cable car, crossing the River Thames to link Greenwich and the Royal Victoria Docks. Flying 90 metres above the river, London Cable Car offers amazing views of London, including St Paul's Cathedral, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The Gherkin. It even won won a Travelers' Choice 2025 award for the 'Things to Do in London' category. London Cable Car takes 10 minutes each way and will be a real treat for kids.

Opening times:

Monday - Thursday 08.00 - 21.00

Friday 09:00-22:00

Saturday 09:00-23:00

Sunday and bank holidays 09:00-21:00

Price from: Adults: £13.50, Kids: £6.75 return.

Crystal Palace Park Dinosaurs

Crystal Palace Park, in South London, is home to an extraordinary collection of statues depicting dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals. These were built in the 1850s by the Victorian sculptor Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins. They were the world’s first attempts to create life-size, scientifically accurate models of beasts known only from fossils. Please note that the park is undergoing restoration which is due to be completed late summer 2026 and includes a new dinosaur-themed playground.

Opening times: Park gates open at 7.30 am and closing times vary through the year

Price: Free

Horniman Museum

​The Horniman Museum could be five museums if it wanted. There’s an aquarium (great for rainy days), butterfly house (great for babies), small farm (great for everybody), natural history hall (great if you want to see its famous walrus) and indoor and outdoor musical instruments area (great for creating a melody). If that doesn’t tempt your little ones, take them to the temporary exhibition space, which currently takes them on an underwater adventure inspired by Jules Verne’s ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’.

Opening times: Daily 10am - 5.30pm

Price: Museum - Free.

Aquarium: £2–£16.80

Butterfly House: £2–£28.60

Voyage to the Deep: £2–£30

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens has loads going on for kids. See-through the eyes of a bird, live like a badger and make friends with giants. From the tropics to the desert, travel the natural world in a day and discover the enormous wonders of nature. There is an indoor play area called Climbers and Creepers, a log trail, woodland walk, badger set, arboretums and the hive where the lights and sounds inside respond to the activity of real bees.

Opening times: Daily, 10am to 7pm (last entry 6pm), Weekends and Bank Holidays, 10am to 8pm (last entry 7pm)

Price: Adult without donation: £25, Child (4-15 years): £2, Child under 4: Free (prices are higher on the gate)

Ragged School Museum

The Ragged School Museum is a museum which was opened in 1990 in the premises of the former Dr Barnardo's Copperfield Road Ragged School. Children can experience a slice of history in the Victorian classroom, where each year some 16,000 children come to experience a glimpse of Victorian life. The room has been recreated in one of Dr Barnardo’s original classrooms, restored as it was in the 1870s.

Opening times: Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm

Price: Adults: £5, Child: £2.50, Family: £10

Royal Observatory, Greenwich

Take an awe-inspiring journey through space and discover the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) at the Royal Observatory. Little ones will love standing on the world's Prime Meridian line which has divided the eastern and western hemispheres of the earth since the late 19th century.

Opening times: Daily, 10am - May until 6pm; June to August until 7pm; September until 6pm

Price: Adult: £24, Child (4-15): £12

Tip: You can also explore the beautiful and expansive parkland of Greenwich and wander past the Cutty Sark as well as the nearby National Maritime Museum where kids can learn about our seafaring history.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Explore the marine world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium on London's South Bank. You and your family will stroll underneath the sea in the glass Ocean Tunnel; take a trip to Seahorse Kingdom; spot piranhas and crocodiles in the Rainforest Adventure and gaze in amazement on the Shark Walk as sharks swim beneath you.

Opening times: Daily 10am-5pm

Price from: Adults: £28, Child (2-15 Years): £27.50, Under 2: Free.

East London

Hackney City Farm

Open all year round (except Mondays), Hackney City Farm offers children and grown-ups the opportunity to get up close to a range of farmyard animals. See, smell and plant vegetables and other food plants. Learn new skills to live a healthier, happier life with a lower environmental impact.

Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday
10:00–16:30

Price: Free

Young V&A

Young V&A in Bethnal Green is a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum and holds the nation’s childhood collections including children's clothing, LEGO, dolls houses, games and much more! The ever-changing exhibitions and interactive experiences currently include 'Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends', a behind the scenes look at stop-motion animation and how Aardman’s iconic characters and worlds are brought to life.

Opening times: Daily, 10 - 17.45

Price: Free

Sky Garden, City of London

The Sky Garden is London's highest public garden with amazing views across the city. Kids will love travelling up 35 floors to reach this beautiful garden. If your little one is a mini Botanist, obsessed with plants and nature, then this is the perfect place to go when the weather is letting you down. Explore landscaped gardens, observation decks and terraces.
Opening times: 10am-6pm and weekends 11am-9pm
Price: Free but tickets must be booked in advance.

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics from potty training and nutrition to baby names and early development and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her two young sisters, dog walking and enjoying the outdoors with her family.

As an avid traveller, going abroad looks a little different since having my son, Seb (now 1 year old) and my priorities have changed. So a family-centric resort on the beautiful island of Mallorca sounded perfect. Having visited Mallorca pre-baby I knew to expect stunning coastline, friendly locals and great food, so I was excited to see what FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach would be like for a family holiday.

Located on the East coast of Mallorca, in Sa Font de Sa Cala, this FERGUS hotel is ideally situated for exploring the local area. With a generous range of facilities including tennis courts, two pools, a splash pool, play area and evening entertainment, families are sure to have plenty to keep them busy. So, whether you prefer to relax by the pool while the children splash about, or do a bit of sightseeing, there’s plenty on offer here.

Accommodation

My mum, Seb and I arrived at FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach around 3pm, later than planned due to many delays along the way (mainly passport control EES as everyone with children had to be manually checked, so be prepared for long queues - a cabin-approved stroller would be a bonus for this too as I ended up with no buggy either!).

Once we found reception (it is the first big glass building you see, but could do with a sign over the door!) we were given a warm welcome, we had our wristbands put on and given a print out with some key information, but not told much more beyond that. Having not stayed at a FERGUS hotel before it would have been good to have a bit more explained upon arrival.

We were given our key cards and room number and went on our way. We were staying in block G, just past the first set of tennis courts, and while we found the building itself easy enough to locate, there needed to be clearer signage pointing out the lift and which floors which room numbers were on. If it’s your first visit I’d recommend asking for someone to show you to your room, particularly if you have luggage and a buggy.

FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach has a range of rooms available, from single rooms to generous Junior Suites, upon finding our room on the top floor we were pleasantly surprised to see we’d been given a Junior Suite, which has a bathroom with bath, shower and loo, a separate sink area in the main bedroom, a mini fridge, two beds and a separate living area. We also had a good-sized balcony with table, chairs and a drying rack (brilliant for wet cozzies and towels). There were no tea-making facilities but according to the guide (which you access via a QR code in the room) you could request a kettle from reception. We’d asked for a travel cot which was all set up ready for bedtime, and I heard another guest requesting bed rails so these are also available upon request for older children. The room was beautifully clean with plenty of towels provided, and we even had a gift basket of fruit and a toy for Seb which was a very sweet touch.

Food and drink

Once we’d unpacked a little we checked the restaurant opening times to see where we could get some food, realising it was an odd time but having travelled all day on snacks Seb needed something more substantial. We also found with our room keys some drink tickets which you exchange for a reusable cup (a great initiative to reduce waste, but again it would have been good to have this explained as we arrived).

There are three restaurants at this FERGUS hotel, a Tex Mex, Pizzeria and the buffet restaurant. We firstly headed to the Pizzeria which according to our piece of paper was open until 6:30 – but we were told the kitchen was closed, and the only place to get food at this time was from the Tex Mex snack bar. There was a small buffet with fresh fruit options available, and a pasta dish but not a whole lot of choice and it would have been nice to have something freshly made after just arriving – even a sandwich.

We were more impressed by the breakfast buffet, there was a lot of choice available from cooked breakfast, to meats and cheeses, to pastries and cereals. Seb was especially happy with the porridge! While we didn’t discover it until our second day, the terrace off from the buffet restaurant is a lovely spot, though you do have to get there early at dinner to get a table. We tried the dinner buffet on one of our evenings and while I liked that there was fresh fish being grilled, and a fair range of options, we found it was mainly Italian foods, pizza, pasta etc – perhaps there was a themed night on, but I’d expected to see more Spanish foods available. It would have been great to have a big paella on the go!

For those with a pushchair there is a lift up to the first floor where the buffet is located, but it’s not made clear that you can use this lift to get up to the restaurant, I saw lots of people abandoning their buggies at the bottom of the staircase so clearly not many knew about it. Again some signage here would make life easier for parents, I happened to go and ask at reception and that’s the only reason I found out you could get up there via the lift.

Something else worth noting is if you need to have breakfast earlier, as we had to on our departure day, it is a very sparse offering. The full breakfast buffet is available from 7:30 but if you need breakfast before this time then it’s in the other restaurant upstairs, which always looked abandoned when we walked through it. There was bread (no butter), a fruit bowl, some ham and cheese, yoghurt and chocolate cereal and the juice machine wasn’t working. It said we had to book the early breakfast on our piece of paper we were given, but at reception when we asked we were told we didn't need to book, so again some mixed information here.

When it comes to food and drink options at the hotel I definitely think here needs to be some clearer information or signage about opening times and when food is available. On heading out on our last evening we saw that the Pizzeria was open when we thought it shut at 6:30 – even if it’s not on an all-inclusive basis, it would have been good to know this was an option for the evening.

If you’re staying B&B you won’t be stuck for options eating out in Sa Font de Sa Cala itself, we ate at Can Goran, Roberto’s and SuKarne – they all offer delicious food, beautiful location and friendly staff who were more than happy to provide high chairs and were lovely with Seb. A particular highlight was dinner at Can Goran, a unique garden oasis nestled among the trees with the best sangria and calamari I’ve ever tasted. Seb tried lots of new foods and loved playing peekaboo with the waitress. If you visit Sa Font de Sa Cala make sure you go here, you won’t be disappointed!

Things to do

Especially if you have sporty kids they’ll have loads to do at FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach, with tennis courts, two pools, a splash pool, beach volleyball, basketball and football. There’s also a kids club providing activities and shows, and evening entertainment for the whole family.

Seb was a big fan of the splash pool! At both larger pools there is also a smaller shallow pool attached, which is ideal for those with children of different ages/swimming abilities. The grounds themselves are immaculate, lush and green, and there’s plenty of shade available at all swimming areas, and there were trees planted over the mini golf course as well.

Just down the road from the hotel is a beautiful sandy cove beach, with clear water and gorgeous views of nearby villas amongst the greenery. It has a lifeguard tower, sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent and a small beach bar. You can also walk a little way along the coast (there’s a pushchair friendly path) and there’s another smaller beach.

There are a couple of souvenir shops in Sa Font de Sa Cala, including one attached to the hotel, providing gifts, beach toys and also a few essentials such as water and other food and drink options. If you want more retail therapy I’d recommend a trip to Capdepera. It’s around €10 for a taxi (and you can request a car seat) but there’s also a local bus route which goes through the town.

Particular highlights were the walled fortress of Castell de Capdepera, which you can reach with a pushchair if you go via Carrer Major instead of the route from the main square. There were stunning views out over the surroundings and a very interesting history centred around protecting the locals from pirates. We managed with a buggy for all but one set of stairs which we had to carry it down, but you can also leave pushchairs at the entrance which we saw another family do.

After a little explore we treated ourselves to refreshments at Torguga, a shop selling homewares, gifts and clothing and featuring products made by local artisans which has a gorgeous café tucked away in a courtyard, Café Margarita. The staff were so lovely and friendly, there’s a little table with toys and books for children, and it’s the ideal place to pause for a well-earned rest and drink after walking up to the Castell (both my mum and I also loved the shop and treated ourselves to a couple of bits!)

In Capdepera there are a variety of other shops, and a good selection of restaurants in the town too, so somewhere we definitely could have returned to had we been staying for longer.

A special shout out to Antonio who was brilliant throughout our stay, he always greeted us with a huge smile and was so helpful whenever we saw him. His grandfather owned the original hotel, from when it was a campsite so it was brilliant to hear more about the area from a true local – seek him out for recommendations on where to visit!

Final thoughts

We really enjoyed our stay at FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach, particularly for the area which is ideal for families. It’s quiet, idyllic, it feels like a real hidden gem and we’re already planning a return trip to the Capdepera area. Everywhere we visited was more than happy to provide high chairs and the locals were so lovely with Seb, and the surroundings are stunning with the clear sea and greenery all around.

Although it’s further from the airport than some other Mallorca destinations it’s around an hour if you got a private transfer, which isn’t too bad. I’d recommend booking a private transfer for families, especially with the delays at passport control, just to make your journey easier. The hotel provided plenty to do, and there are loads of other places in Capdepera municipality that we could have visited, such as Cala Ratjada and Cala Mesquida. My main feedback for the hotel would be to improve signage to make it easier for first-time visitors, and provide clearer information from arrival, especially on food options (even the room guide didn’t provide any more clarity on this). If you’re looking for a hotel with all-inclusive options, with plenty to do inside the hotel and out then I’d 100% recommend FERGUS Club Font de Sa Cala Beach for families.

About the author

Stephanie Spencer is the Digital Editor at Mother&Baby and has recently welcomed her first baby. With over a decade of experience in digital publishing, she's passionate about ensuring parents receive trusted advice when they need it most. She has a particular interest in health, both physical and mental, and loves discovering products that make parent’s lives easier.

While the Mother&Baby ovulation calculator can work out when you're ovulating based on your last period, ovulation tests detect your most fertile window by using your urine or saliva. Brands like Clearblue lead the way on the market, with easy-to-use test kits that are able to identify four or more fertile days when you are ovulating to help you boost your chances of getting pregnant.

Ovulation prediction kits (commonly referred to as an OPK) mainly come in the form of urine tests, but saliva test kits are also available (although sometimes less effective). Here's everything you need to know about how ovulation prediction kits work and which brands are the best value for money.

How much do they cost and which brands are best?

Standard urine-based OPKs are priced between £10 and £15 per cycle. Most brands offer the same level of reliability, so definitely pick the one that offers you the most tests for the least amount of money.

Salivary ferning OPKs can be better valued. After the initial cost of between £20 to £35 for the microscope, you should be able to use it again and again. However, if it takes you a long time to conceive, you might have to replace it after about two years.

Why are Ovulation Prediction Kits helpful?

Having sex consistently, a couple of times a week throughout your cycle, is the best way to increase your chances of pregnancy, but it is also extremely useful to be able to schedule sex when you know it is likely to make the most difference. This is where OPKs come in.

Couples with busy lives often find regular sex difficult and it can sometimes feel like a chore, especially for those who have been trying for a while with no success. While you could chart your monthly cycles using the temperature method (tracking your temperature for patterns to predict ovulation), taking an over-the-counter test is a quick, easy, and reliable way to predict when ovulation is likely to occur.

If you have irregular cycle length and potentially late ovulation, then OPKs are particularly useful. The test allows you to pinpoint your fertile window throughout the length of your menstrual every month and plan to have sex accordingly. This can often make these times more special, as you know your chances are maximised, improving your relationship and reducing the stress often associated with trying for a baby.

How do ovulation tests work?

Urine-based ovulation tests are the most common, they detect the LH surge in your urine, which signals when you are about to start ovulating. This is detected one or two days before ovulation. While a small amount of LH (luteinising hormone) already exists in urine, the amount increases by two to five times in the few days before ovulation, which is how the test can reliably identify your most fertile window. During this window, you are most likely to conceive.

Salivary ferning kits are another type of OPK. These operate rather by monitoring the rise in your oestrogen levels both before and just after ovulation. You test your saliva with a tiny, portable microscope and if your oestrogen levels have risen, the salt content of your saliva increases.

When the salt dries, it crystallises into a fern-like pattern, letting you know that you are now in your ovulation window. If you are not in your fertile window, the saliva will just dry in shapeless lumps.

How do you use OPKs?

Urine-based OPKs

These are rather like pregnancy tests, simply wee on a stick and coloured bands will appear on the stick to indicate whether or not the LH surge is occurring. If you are using a digital OPK, they usually use symbols, such as a smiley face to let you know when you are on your most fertile days. Generally, you should try to collect your wee between 10am and 8pm. The recommended optimum time is between 2pm and 2.30pm.

It is recommended that you try to collect your wee at about the same time every day, for added consistency, but this is not absolutely crucial. A few more tips - don’t do the test as soon as you wake up, and try to reduce the amount of liquid you drink for about four hours before you do the test. Too much liquid could dilute your urine, which may make it more difficult to detect the LH increase.

Afterwards, read the test results within 10 minutes and throw the test away once you’ve read it, as sometimes faintly coloured bands start appearing sometime after, which can deceive you about the result.

Salivary Ferning OPKs

Using a salivary ferning OPK is easier, simply place some of your saliva on the slide, either using your finger or licking it. Do this first thing in the morning, before you’ve had anything to eat or drink. Make sure you don’t put too much saliva on it and that it is free of any air bubbles for the best result.

Then, you wait for the saliva to dry and use the microscope to see whether there is any ‘ferning’ or not. You can compare your slide with examples in the instructions to see whether you are ovulating or not that day. With both types of OPK, the best time to start testing is on day 11 of your cycle and you can carry on for six days. Our ovulation calculator will help you with that.

Is there anything else to be aware of when using OPKs?

Although over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol won’t affect the tests, those containing Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) or LH can have an effect on your result. Equally, some fertility drugs can also affect the results, so make sure you check any medication before taking the test.

Urine-based LH tests are 99% accurate at detecting ovulation. Salivary ferning tests aren’t as accurate, as the process of ferning may happen at other times in your menstrual cycle, especially if you are taking fertility drugs. One thing to note is that if you have poor eyesight, salivary ferning kits may not be the best method to choose.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

Walk into any major toy shop and you will see shelves of brightly coloured plastic promising instant entertainment. Buttons light up. Characters talk. A single tap produces a perfectly programmed response. But many parents are beginning to ask a different question. If the toy does everything, what is left for the child to do?

In recent years, open-ended toys have quietly shifted from niche nursery staples to mainstream parenting conversation. They are regularly recommended by early years educators, child psychologists and parenting influencers. They appear in minimalist playrooms on Instagram and in progressive nursery classrooms across the UK. Yet the term itself can feel vague. What actually makes a toy open-ended, and why does it matter?

What are open-ended toys?

An open-ended toy is one that can be used in multiple ways, without a fixed outcome or single correct result. There are no instructions that limit the play, no prescribed storyline and no final version that must be achieved. So instead of telling a child what to do, the toy invites them to decide.

A simple set of wooden blocks could become a tower, a car park, a zoo enclosure or a spaceship. The same magnetic tiles might form a castle one day and a marble run the next. The toy remains the same, but the play evolves according to the child’s imagination, stage of development and interests.

That flexibility is the defining feature. The value lies not in what the toy does, but in what the child does with it.

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Why open-ended play matters

Open-ended toys support a type of play that is self-directed and exploratory. Rather than following instructions, children experiment. They test ideas, solve problems and often change direction halfway through.

This kind of play naturally strengthens creative thinking. It also supports resilience. When there is no single correct answer, mistakes simply become part of the process. A wobbly tower is rebuilt. A design that collapses is reimagined.

Another reason these toys appeal to parents is longevity. A toy with one fixed function can lose its appeal quickly once the novelty fades. Open-ended materials, by contrast, tend to grow with a child. A toddler may stack blocks purely for the sensory satisfaction. A five year old may use the same blocks to create elaborate small world scenes.

They also tend to encourage calmer, more sustained play. Without flashing lights or preset sounds, children often settle into deeper concentration.

Common examples include wooden building blocks, magnetic tiles, play silks, LEGO sets, stacking cups, loose parts such as shells or pebbles, and open-ended craft materials like play dough. The common thread is flexibility - there is no single intended end result.

Open-ended toys vs Montessori toys: What's the difference?

The rise in popularity of open-ended toys has happened alongside growing interest in Montessori education, and the two are often confused. Although they can overlap, they are not the same.

Montessori toys are designed around a specific educational philosophy developed by Dr Maria Montessori. Each material usually isolates one skill and is presented in a structured way, e.g: A pouring activity strengthens hand control.

The aim is mastery through repetition and concentration. The child is free to choose the activity, but the material itself has a clear purpose and a defined method of use.

Open-ended toys are broader in scope. They are not designed to teach one particular skill in isolation. Instead, they provide a flexible starting point. The learning that emerges depends on how the child engages with them.

You could think of it this way: Montessori toys are about precision and progression while open-ended toys are about possibility and imagination.

That said, the distinction is not always rigid. A simple wooden block set could be used in a structured, skill-focused way or in a completely imaginative one. Often the difference lies less in the object itself and more in the intention behind it.

For many families, the most balanced approach includes elements of both. Structured toys can build focus and independence, while open-ended toys nurture creativity and flexible thinking.

Why the shift now?

The renewed interest in open-ended toys reflects a wider cultural shift. Many parents are reassessing how much stimulation children really need. There is increasing awareness of screen time, overstimulation and the environmental impact of fast-consumption plastic toys.

Open-ended toys offer a quieter alternative. They tend to be simpler, longer lasting and often made from natural materials. They encourage children to generate ideas rather than consume them.
In a world that often feels noisy and fast, that simplicity holds a powerful appeal.

Our favourite open-ended toys

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

As a mum of three I have tested more pushchairs and prams than I can count on one hand, but there’s something about the Venicci Upline 2 that really stands out from many of the others I've used. With a sleek and stylish design, the Venicci Upline 2 promises to be a lightweight pram to push, with enhanced practicality that parents need, such as the one-handed fold mechanism and carry strap.

Here's what I found when testing the Venicci Upline 2 with my baby.

Testing the Venicci Upline 2

Over several weeks of testing, I used the Venicci Upline 2 across a variety of everyday situations, from canal-side walks and uneven pathways to supermarket shops and folded in car journeys. I tested both the carry cot and toddler seat, paying close attention to comfort, manoeuvrability, storage, folding, and overall practicality to see how it performs for busy family life.

First impressions and assembly

Putting the Venicci Upline 2 together was fairly straightforward. It comes with both a carry cot and a toddler seat, which can be used in either a parent-facing or world-facing position depending on your child’s age and preference. There’s also the option to purchase a bundle that includes a car seat and the necessary adaptors to attach it to the pram frame.

I love how sleek and stylish the Venicci Upline 2 looks, and while the pram version I have is an all black colour, it has texture to it that makes it look a lot more luxurious than just plain. The gold accents on the logo and the zippers add a slightly more stylish touch as well, and make it stand out from the more common silver detailing found on many other models.

Practicality and storage

The pram arrived with a matching changing bag, which I did like as it matched the pram perfectly. It's a backpack-style design which I found practical and comfortable to wear, however, I did find it a little too narrow for my needs. As a mum of three, I often carry extra snacks, drinks, and spare clothing, so I would have preferred something with a bit more capacity.

The under-seat basket, however, offered plenty of storage space for coats, shopping, and any extra bits we found taking out with us. I particularly liked the mesh side panels, which I felt made the basket look less bulky.

Usability

Performance on different terrain

Living near a canal with rough pathways and stone walkways, I was keen to see how the Venicci Upline 2 would perform as I see so many parents struggling to push their prams over it. Thankfully, I found the Venicci an absolute dream to push. The sturdy wheels handled uneven terrain with ease, and the pram felt smooth, stable, and comfortable to manoeuvre.

Folding and transport

One of my favourite features was the one-handed fold. It made collapsing the frame quick and convenient, especially when you're juggling a baby and other bags. The integrated carry handle also made lifting the chassis into the car much easier as well.

The carry strap is a thoughtful addition too, but I did find that even with the shoulder pad, it could dig into my shoulder after a short time, so it wasn't quite as comfortable as I had hoped.

While the pram frame folds down neatly too, I did find the overall system bulkier than expected. The frame itself doesn't take up loads of space, but the big wheels would struggle in a smaller car, and I also found the carry cot to take up the most amount of space.

Although it's worth noting both the carry cot and toddler seat can be collapsed to save room, I personally just found folding the carry cot a little fiddly and inconvenient. It felt like an extra step when loading the car or unloading the car, and not one I particularly enjoyed doing regularly.

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Performance

The carry cot appeared very comfortable for my daughter and she was always happy to be asleep in it. Managing hot weather is always a worry too, so having the option to unzip the top of the carry cot to allow for airflow and ventilation was really helpful in keeping my daughter cool on hotter days.

I also liked the detachable windbreaker on the carry cot. It was helpful in providing protection from cold weather and also adds extra shade from the sun. The only downside was that I did find it harder to see my daughter while we were out walking, as it could obstruct my view slightly. However, the added protection and reassurance it offered largely outweighed this.

I think my biggest criticism of the pushchair would be the brake position. I’m fairly tall and often use the handlebar in its extended position, and because the brake is located centrally beneath the basket, I found myself having to stretch awkwardly underneath the pram to engage or release it. I also found the bag being hooked to the pram also made this harder. It’s not a major issue, but it did make quick stops less convenient than they could have been. I think it would be much more user-friendly if the brake were positioned to one side instead.

I've had to deal with my fair share of rain covers as well in all my years of parenting, but I have to say I was really impressed with this one. It was really easy to pop over the carry cot and came with Velcro attachments to secure it to the pram frame. I loved the ventilation holes in the raincover too, something I've not really noticed on other rain covers I've used. I also really liked the viewing window, which allowed me to unzip a section of the raincover without fully removing it, which was helpful to quickly zip back up if it started raining, and also for lifting my baby through.

Final verdict

Overall, I found the Venicci Upline 2 to be a stylish, well-built travel system that combines premium looks with the practicality that parents need. It handles rough terrain really well, while offering plenty of storage, and thoughtful features such as the one-handed fold, airflow panel, and adjustable seating options.

While it could be bulkier than some parents expect, and the brake placement could be improved, these drawbacks are relatively minor compared to its strengths. For parents looking for a sturdy, attractive pram that feels comfortable to push across a variety of terrains, I would highly recommend the Venicci Upline 2, as it is by far one of my favourite prams that I've used in my many years of parenting.

Samantha is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three aged nine, four and 1 years old. She loves planning fun family days out, trips and adventures. She also loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

Visiting Lapland UK had been on our family’s Christmas bucket list for a while, and after the opening of the Manchester Lapland, the festive fear of missing out on the experience this year had well and truly kicked in.

With an inquisitive eight-year-old who felt like he was approaching his final years of believing in Father Christmas, a four-year-old deep in her wonderfully magical era, and a would-be eight-month-old who would be joining us for the ride (and essentially enjoying some free baby sensory), it felt like the perfect year to go all in on Christmas magic.

So, in the midst of pregnancy hormones, I kept thinking: what if this is our last year when the magic feels completely real for our eldest? That thought alone was enough to press the booking button.

Note, there are spoilers ahead about the experience if you'd prefer it to be a complete surprise!

The booking process

Booking tickets was definitely the most stressful part of the whole experience. I went in completely blind and, in hindsight, I really wish I had read a few Lapland booking tips beforehand.

After signing up for ticket sale notifications, I joined a virtual waiting room on the day of release. You're then put into a digital queue before you can even see which dates are available. When your turn arrives, you only have 10 minutes to complete your booking, which sounds like plenty of time until you realise how many decisions you have to make.

I wasn’t sure which extras were worth adding, especially the elf currency (jingles). Because I hadn’t seen the prices of toys, food or drinks at Lapland itself, I had no idea how many we might need.

Between trying to choose dates, figure out extras and decide how many jingles to buy, my time ran out just before checkout, so I had to rejoin the queue and start again, hoping that there were still some time slots left. I rejoined around 11am, and didn't actually get back into the site until two hours later!

Thankfully, the second time around, knowing exactly what I wanted, I managed to secure tickets quickly for the end of November. I wasn't too bothered about exactly when to go, and nearly all of the December days had gone by this point. I did add some jingles when checking out here as well, not realising we could add these in at a later date anyway.

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One thing I would definitely recommend is adding the booking insurance. Winter illness can easily derail plans, and with children, it’s reassuring to know you’re covered if you do need to cancel.

The Manchester experience is entirely indoors as well, which we’d heard some people complain about online before our visit, but honestly you wouldn’t know. The scenery and lighting completely immerse you in the moment, and from a practical point of view, not being cold or soggy actually made the experience much more enjoyable.

The Lapland build-up

In the months leading up to the experience, Lapland releases occasional product drops and optional extras that you can add to your booking. I realised here that you can go back and add things like additional jingles after your initial booking, which would have made the process much less stressful had I known about it.

One of the product releases around June was the honorary elf hats. I debated for ages whether to get them, and I kept putting it off… and then they sold out. I was absolutely gutted.

But thankfully, the magic of Lapland had already started, and more were released about a month before our visit, so we managed to buy three hats in time. Lots of children were wearing them during the experience as well, so it was lovely for our kids to feel part of it all.

Another thing that surprised me most was how engaging the Lapland experience felt, long before we even arrived. Throughout the year, you receive exciting updates, pictures and videos to share with your children about the goings-on in the North Pole. My eldest two loved this, particularly the Lapland Baking videos, as it meant they could bake Lapland treats at home.

"You're going to Lapland!"

The initial invite comes in a plain brown box via post, so there’s no hint of the magic inside, and there are no spoilers for nosy children (my son is super curious and able to read, so this was helpful!). Inside the box is the actual invite, with clear instructions on preparing invitations for your children and making them feel extra special.

We waited until the day before our trip to surprise our children. With winter bugs everywhere, we didn’t want the kids feeling disappointed if we had to cancel at the last minute.

One of the best tips included in the instructions was to put the envelopes in the freezer for a little while before giving them. It creates the perfect illusion that they’ve travelled all the way from the North Pole. We also got a neighbour to post it through our letterbox, so our son wasn't suspicious about how it got posted. Another way we'd seen was the Elf on the Shelf bringing the invite, but as our date was in November, this wouldn't have worked for us.

I'd spent eight months wondering if we had made the right choice booking this trip. It wasn't the cheapest, especially on maternity pay, and I was worried it would be a lot of money for very minimal enjoyment for our eight-year-old. But honestly? In that moment, watching my son read his personalised invite and seeing the smile stretch across his face, I knew it was going to be worth it.

The invite itself was so beautiful, and inside were two personalised invitations for our two older children, plus a special “elfing” invite for our baby. There was also a charming little newspaper filled with festive details about Lapland.

With less than 24 hours to go before our departure, it's safe to say bedtime was a struggle with all the excitement that night!

Arriving at Lapland

I’ll admit we were slightly apprehensive about whether the magic would hold up when we were essentially pulling into a car park just outside of Manchester.

Our eight-year-old immediately questioned why there wasn't an airport, so we had to think quickly and explain that the magical portal in the departure lounge isn't in an airport.

The walk from the car park is beautifully done, with picturesque scenery and photo opportunities along the way. I’d definitely recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your slot to allow time to park and get into the arrival area. We were parked up about 50 minutes before our experience, and by the time we had walked, checked in and made a quick toilet stop, it was almost time for our group to depart on the experience.

When checking in, you receive your elf currency (1 Jingle per £1) and your children's passports. You're also given a group to go through the experience with: team Husky or team Reindeer. We loved the passport touch, as inside the kids had to stamp different pages at various points along their journey.

It's worth noting too, there is a shop in the entry area, and we were guilted into buying a couple of marshmallow lollies thinking we were waiting a bit longer, but in hindsight I’d probably skip it because our kids completely lost interest in them once the experience started, meaning we wasted about £10.

Once your experience starts, you enter the first area where you're given a magical introduction to some of Lapland's Elves, and a story begins. You absolutely cannot fault the Elves. From their outfits to the way they spoke and interacted, it was truly magic.

There is a little bit of standing around in this area, too, but once you move into the portal room, there are seats to sit on.

The Portal room

You're transported to an outdoor area here, with a beautiful, huge tree and a door in the middle. You're again taken through a magical storyline before the portal is allowed to open, and entry to Lapland can happen.

We could hear many younger children getting restless in this room, and at times, I found it hard to follow the story myself. Our daughter kept asking, "Are we seeing Father Christmas yet?" too, so I would be prepared for a bit of restlessness from smaller kids!

Eventually, the portal opens, and you walk through it into a snowy woodland path that leads you to the toy factory.

The Toy Factory

Your first interactive stop is at Father Christmas' Toy Factory! The storytelling here was brilliant, and my kids loved how funny one of the elves was. They explained why the children had been invited to help at the factory: they were running behind schedule for Christmas and needed extra hands to build toys for Christmas Day, so the kids had to help build some cuddly polar bears.

The children attach pieces of the bear using Velcro before sending them down a conveyor belt so Father Christmas can prepare them as gifts.

Our daughter got a little frustrated when the Velcro pieces didn’t stick straight away, and the final part, where they have to take the bears to a conveyor belt, felt a bit rushed, as the toys had to be sent off quickly to meet a deadline. Our daughter did not want to part with her bear but we were able to distract her (with the help of a nearby elf) with the next room.

Grown ups do collect some ready made bears at the end of the overall experience, to be opened on Christmas Day which was another magical, thoughtful touch.

The Bakery

After another snowy woodland walkway, we arrived at Mrs Claus' Bakery. This was probably our favourite part of the whole experience, as we love to bake at home. While you don't actually get to bake the gingerbread yourself, it was really fun decorating it.

Everyone gets involved here, and the gingerbread kits come packaged so children can take them home afterwards. We felt much more relaxed in this room, and the elves had more time to chat with families, which even our baby loved.

The Elven Village

From there, we stepped outside into the Elven Village. Walking out into the cold air, hearing children laughing and skating on the ice, suddenly made it feel like we had truly arrived at the North Pole. It was magical, and our children's faces when they saw all the snow and twinkling lights was a core memory.

There is plenty to do in the village, and there are also lots of different shops, from a library, a toy store, a bakery shop, and a post office! The children can collect passport stamps as they explore the different locations.

Our first stop was the post office to write letters to Father Christmas on special elf paper, although many families had already brought theirs written. We then moved on to the bakery and stopped to sit and take in the village.

One thing my husband and I noticed is that throughout the entire experience was the dedication of the elves. Even when children weren’t listening, they never broke character. We walked behind two elves that we were certain were having general chit chat, but they were actually talking about other elves we'd experienced along the way!

Our son was wearing a Lapland FC football shirt, and one elf stopped what he was doing and started chatting to him about the fictional league, asking whether he had watched last night’s football game against the South Pole. My son absolutely loved it, happily discussing the match despite having no idea about the actual game!

Those little personal moments really made the experience special.

We then moved on to the ice skating, which was extremely busy, so I would advise either going straight to it once you enter the village or doing this last. If you are planning to skate and have never done it before, I’d recommend a couple of practice sessions before you go on the experience, because we only lasted a few minutes before we all gave in!

Smaller children also don’t wear full skates; they use grips that attach to their shoes, which I think I would've preferred too.

Spending your jingles

There were plenty of food and drink options, although it was quite expensive. We ate before we came to the experience, so we could just have a drink and a snack when we got to the village, which, on hindsight, we are really glad we did, so we could save our jingles for souvenirs.

We did treat ourselves to hot chocolates, which were worth it!

Our kids were really keen to spend all their jingles at the toy shop in the village. We asked an elf for advice on whether it was worth spending jingles here or at the end, and there is an even bigger shop at the end of the experience, but they warned that things might have sold out there.

Our children spent all their jingles in the first shop, so I wish I had split their jingle budget to help prevent disappointment in the last shop.

We really wanted to keep the magic of Lapland, so we bought £125 jingles in total and didn't use our cards to buy anything while we were there. Each pouch contains £25 in jingles, so it was really easy to split and manage.

We spent nearly all the jingle, and came away with about £15 jingle spare, which we have saved. So £115 jingle got us:

• Leopard snow toy
• Lapland water bottle
• Lapland bauble
• Lapland mug
• Lapland shopper bag
• 2 x hot chocolates
• Lapland chocolate
• 2 x chocolate coins
• 2 x dog collars (which we bought at the end!)

So while it sounds a lot to spend, we did really get a lot for our money!

Reindeer and the final wait

Before meeting Father Christmas, families head to see the reindeer, which was actually the busiest part of the whole experience, and it felt a little less magical.

There were three queues, and you had to go through this part to reach Father Christmas. The first queue was for photos on Santa’s sleigh, the second was for reindeer food making (which costs £9 and isn’t included in your overall experience), and the main queue to see Father Christmas.

The highlight of this part was that you got to see sleeping reindeer resting in their stables. We waited around 20 minutes in the queue to see Father Christmas, which wasn’t too bad considering the crowds.

After that, we walked through another enchanting woodland path to a waiting room.

Here, the adults check in with the elves to confirm details about the children, including how to pronounce their names and some of their interests. It’s incredibly thorough, and super important that children aren’t listening during this part!

We felt like this was really organised as it could quickly become chaotic with so many tired and overexcited children. An elf would come out and call the names of those who were next to see Father Christmas, and each time the door opened, our kids got more excited, hoping their names would be next.

Meeting Father Christmas

Once our son and daughter's names had been called, they followed an elf through the woods to a cabin, nestled off a pathway behind some trees. On the walk, the elf speaks to the kids about their adventures of the day and explains how busy Father Christmas has been, but he cannot wait to see the children and hear about their day, too.

By this point, we’d seen how excited our son had been throughout the whole day, but we also knew that, at eight years old, the belief was beginning to fade slightly. I don't know about my husband, but I was holding my breath before the door opened because I felt like this would make or break his experience.

As the cabin door opened, you could see Father Christmas sitting waiting for the kids, and from his whole outfit to his voice, it felt real. Our son was in awe, and normally he doesn't like participating, but he listened to every word spoken and answered every question - he couldn't believe how much he knew about him!

In the cabin, Father Christmas gave both kids a bell for their honorary elf hats, and a cuddly husky toy for their hard work. He even gave our baby a little husky rattle to take away, too. After a quick photo, you follow the snowy paths to the exit, where you enter a huge gift shop. Here you can collect a free photo that you have taken with Father Christmas, and you're also given two polar bear teddies to hide away until Christmas day (it's worth taking a shopping bag to hide them in so nosey children aren't tempted to peek!)

Overall

The whole experience, from start to finish, was straight out of a storybook. The details, the acting, everything was truly magical. And for that exact reason, I wouldn't want to go back. Our kids still talk about the magical trip they had, and I wouldn't want it to become a novelty.

Lapland UK isn’t cheap, and there’s no getting around that, but seeing the wonder on our children’s faces, watching our eldest rediscover the magic for just a little longer, and experiencing such thoughtful storytelling as a family made it feel incredibly special.

A lot of families go back year after year because they love it so much, and while we had the most magical time, we see a visit to Lapland as a one-off experience we were all very lucky to do, but we couldn't justify going every year.

For us, it was absolutely worth it, just as a one-off.

Samantha Ball is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three and loves searching for the best and current trending products for little ones. She loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

We love new gadgets here at Mother&Baby, especially the ones that make parenting a little easier. The Sleepytroll Baby Rocker Gen2 is the latest to make its appearance. It's essentially a rechargeable baby rocker that comes complete with sound and motion sensors to gently soothe and comfort your little one

As the name suggests, the Baby Rocker Gen2 is designed to provide gentle, continuous rocking to calm your little one. We like it as it's portable so you can take it with you to use on a stroller, crib, or a bouncer.

It's pretty easy to use too! You simply attach it and switch it on. Parents can take advantage of three hours of uninterrupted rocking motion via the Sleepytroll app. This will leave you a little time to finish off what needs doing around the house. Sleepytroll also automatically responds when your baby stirs, so no more having to rock your baby back to sleep, the soothing rocker will do the work for you and your arms will thank you!

Scroll down to find out how Senior Writer Sam got on when testing the Sleepytroll with her third baby.

Features of the Sleepytroll Baby Rocker

There are many reasons why the first version of the Sleepytroll was loved by parents, and even more so now with some upgraded features.

Versatile

The Sleepytroll can be used on strollers, cribs, and even baby bouncers (adapters are sold separately).

Adjustable

Its basic mode provides 60 minutes of rocking, or up to 180 when controlled via the Sleepytroll app. You can also adjust the intensity of the rock, which is great for rocking double strollers too.

Long-Lasting Battery

Keeps your baby comforted with up to 12 hours of battery life on a single 2.5-hour charge (the previous version only had 8 hour life on max power).

Dual control

The Sleepytroll can be controlled via the app for more rocking options, or manually on the rocker itself for quick use.

Sensor mode

The Sleepytroll automatically starts rocking for three minutes whenever it detects your baby stirring or crying, providing instant comfort.

Another advantage of the Sleepytroll is that it's suitable to use from birth and is water resistant, so you don't have to worry about rainy weather if it's attached to a stroller while you're out.

Testing the Sleepytroll Baby Rocker Gen2

As a seasoned parent, I’ve probably tried and tested every baby sleep aid possible, but one thing I’ve never actually tried is a pram rocker.

With my third baby now here, I was keen to see how the Sleepytroll Gen 2 Rocker lived up to expectations. How could this little device help keep my baby soothed in their pram?

The Sleepytroll Gen 2 Rocker is the latest version of Sleepytroll, with a compatible app and improved battery life.

Build

It’s quite a weighty device, but given the fact it’s supposed to rock a pram with similar motion to a parent rocking it, it’s to be expected. But saying that, it’s still a sleek design and the strap to attach it to the handlebar is very sturdy.
I was really impressed with how basic it was, there was nothing complicated about its build, with three easy to access buttons that had clear functions too.
The Sleepytroll is also waterproof which during our first outing in rain I did panic about at first, but we’ve since used the rocker, and it’s continued to function perfectly.

Usability

When you think of a device that’s supposed to rock a pram when your baby cries or stirs, it’s easy to compare it to baby rockers that can often have complicated setting changes in them. I was really impressed with how simple and easy to use the Sleepytroll was, with just three buttons that could turn the device on, off and put on auto start.

I did find you had to hold the buttons in for at least five seconds to select a function, but for me the benefit of this was neither of my other two children could switch the rocker off or turn it on and waste battery life.

The one and only thing I couldn’t get on with for the Sleepytroll was the app. I managed to connect the app and device fine; that was very straight forward, but I couldn’t get the Sleepytroll to start from the app, however this could’ve just been a signal issue with my location.

Otherwise, it was really easy to use the rocker just by clicking the buttons directly on it. I did actually prefer just doing this on the device anyway rather than the app, as it was always within reaching distance if I needed to adjust any settings anyway.

The Sleepytroll was also passed around our parenting group when we were all out with our little ones, and whilst we found it fit most of the prams, those with larger handles we couldn't get it to attach. The fastening is almost like a zip-tie, that you can easily unclip as well. I feel like if it was just that little bit longer, it would be able to fit all pram handlebars.

Performance

I’ve had my fair share of accidents when out for meals, where I’ve been trying to settle my children in their pram by rocking it, and accidentally bumping the pram into someone, and what I loved most about the Sleepytroll is that it takes away that stress of feeling like you’re getting in the way. The Sleepytroll rocks the pram in the exact same spot, so no too-ing and fro-ing involved, and no bumping the pram into every piece of furniture while you’re trying to gently rock!

Another thing I was very impressed by was the battery life. It says it has up to 12 hours of battery life, which has meant we’ve gotten weeks out of the device before having to charge as it’s not continuously used. This is incredibly handy for me as I’m so forgetful when it comes to charging things or changing batteries.

While not entirely relevant to the overall performance of the Sleepytroll, one thing I did love was the fact the charger was compatible with the latest iPhone charger, so for me, I loved the convenience of only having to take one charging cable out with me! It also meant that I didn't have to rummage around drawers or leave extra cables laying around in order to charge the device.

There are many sleep aids that feel a bit gimmicky to me, but I found the Sleepytroll to actually work. Whenever my daughter stirred in her pram, the auto function picked up on it, and it would gently rock the stroller and help her settle back to sleep. It would then stop rocking after a few more minutes—and my baby still stayed asleep!

Final verdict

Overall while I do think it’s quite an expensive product, it is the holy grail of sleep aids for parents and has allowed me to be more present for my other two children as well.

The Sleepytroll is sleek, stylish and most of all lives up to its function of helping to keep baby settled while parents can rest their arms or eat their dinners while out. It’s been so nice to go out for a coffee with my family and still be able to have both hands on a cup, rather than frantically rocking a pram with one and trying not to spill my drink with the other! It's definitely an investment baby item, but it's also one you can get friends and family to contribute too as well (did someone say collective baby shower gift?) I honestly don’t think I’ve ever appreciated a little device as much as this!

Samantha Ball is a Senior Writer for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of three and loves searching for the best and current trending products for little ones. She loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.

Choosing the right travel stroller can make or break a family trip, particularly when flying. Parents want something lightweight yet sturdy, compact enough for overhead storage, but still comfortable and supportive for baby. The Avionaut Airby promises all of this, combining a cabin approved fold with thoughtful safety features and a sleek, modern design.

Mum to be Chloe put the Airby to the test to see whether it truly delivers on its travel friendly claims.

Testing the Airby Stroller

We wanted to invest in a travel pram for an upcoming trip abroad. We already have the Avionaut Pixel 3 car seat and when Avionaut released their new travel stroller it seemed like the perfect choice for us. We loved how lightweight the car seat is, so we had the same expectations for the travel pram itself.

The pram comes in a choice of colours including black, beige, blue, green and burgundy. We decided to go with the beige colourway as it felt neutral and timeless, and it pairs beautifully with our mint Pixel car seat when we are out and about.

Build

When our travel pram arrived, I genuinely could not believe how lightweight the box felt. It made me question whether the pram was actually inside. That first impression really set the tone.

As with our Pixel car seat, the instructions were incredibly simple, with clear diagrams and numbered steps. Within minutes and with the press of one button, the pram was up and ready to use. I was seriously impressed with how straightforward it was. For tired parents or those juggling a newborn, that ease of setup is a huge plus.

One of the standout features is the one hand fold and it really does live up to its promise. Being able to fold the pram smoothly with one hand while holding baby or a changing bag makes such a difference.

Switching between the seated and recline positions is also very simple. You just pull or push the tag at the back of the pram to adjust it, and it feels smooth and secure.

The pram also has a generous 8kg basket underneath, which is surprisingly spacious for a compact travel stroller. It is perfect for storing changing bags, coats, or holiday essentials when you are on the move.

Usability

We gave the pram a proper test run on grass, around the house and on pavement, and we were really impressed. The manoeuvrability is excellent for such a lightweight stroller. It feels sturdy and well balanced, and there was no wobbling or rattling thanks to the enhanced suspension and ETPU wheels. It handled uneven surfaces better than we expected for a travel model.

One of the biggest selling points for us is that it is cabin size approved. It folds down to a suitcase style size, which is ideal for travelling on planes and trains. Knowing we can keep it with us rather than checking it into the hold is very reassuring. It also comes with a travel bag, which makes transporting and protecting it even easier.

The pram features a solid, single piece backrest designed to support a baby’s posture. It reclines from 101 degrees to 150 degrees, offering flexibility whether your little one wants to sit up and explore or lie back for a nap. This thoughtful design gives us confidence that it will support our baby comfortably as they grow.

The deep, extendable canopy is another highlight. It provides excellent coverage and has a zip at the back so you can discreetly check on your baby without disturbing them. The fabric is splash proof and offers UPF 50+ protection, which is especially reassuring when travelling somewhere sunny.

Performance

The brakes are very easy to use and feel secure. We tested them while wearing flip flops and sliders and had no issues at all, which is important during summer outings.

The pram also includes reflective elements on the footrest and shopping basket, adding an extra level of visibility and safety when out in low light.

It comes with a five point harness that is magnetic, which makes fastening it so much easier when you have your hands full. The magnetic clip clicks together smoothly and feels secure, and the straps are easy to adjust. The harness is also padded, so we feel reassured that our baby will be comfortable and well supported.

Final thoughts

Overall, this pram feels like exactly what we need for travelling and everyday outings. It is lightweight without feeling flimsy, compact yet practical, and clearly designed with both parent and baby comfort in mind. We genuinely cannot find anything negative to say about it so far.

For us, the Avionaut Airby makes travelling feel far less stressful, particularly when thinking about airport navigation and going abroad. It offers a smooth, hassle free experience and gives us confidence that we will be well prepared for our first adventures as a family.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

As a 35-year-old mum-of-one who knows the power of a UK staycation, I've stayed in my fair share of static caravans, holiday parks and family-friendly resorts over the years. Yet somehow, despite Butlin's being one of the most recognisable names in British family holidays, I had never actually been. We weren't a Butlin's family when I was young; I've never made it to a Big Weekender as an adult – it's entirely passed me by.

So, when I arrived at Skegness with my partner and 21-month-old son, Oscar, for a Showtime Midweek Break, I was looking forward to finding out what it was really like. As it turned out, many of the things that stood out most weren't what I'd expected.

Was it perfect? No. But was it one of the most thoughtfully designed holidays I've experienced with a toddler? Absolutely.

First impressions

Walking into Butlin's for the first time felt a bit like entering a mini city designed entirely for families. There's a lot going on. The arcades are loud; there are flashing lights everywhere, music drifts from multiple directions, and it can initially feel as though every available wall and floor space is encouraging you to spend money. As someone who generally prefers quieter, low-key breaks, I found it overwhelming at first, and Oscar did too.

However, once we'd found our bearings and settled into the rhythm of the resort, what initially felt overwhelming started to feel exciting instead, and we took it all in our stride.

The accommodation that made all the difference

If you've spent any time researching Butlin's online, you'll know accommodation reviews can be a little mixed. That's why I can't overstate how impressed I was with our Maple Walk accommodation. Modern, stylish, spotless and surprisingly peaceful, it felt worlds away from what I'd expected. After spending long days swimming, exploring playgrounds and watching shows, returning to a calm, comfortable space made a huge difference. For me, this was one of the standout parts of the trip.

If your budget allows, I genuinely think upgrading your accommodation is worth every penny. Not only is Maple Walk beautifully finished, but it's also just a short walk from all the main attractions, which becomes incredibly important when you're pushing a buggy and carrying a tired toddler at the end of the day.

The all-weather winner: Splash Waterworld

Splash Waterworld was a highlight for our family. It was a little much for Oscar initially (but he loves a waterpark, so we knew he'd come around). There were slides, fountains, giant tipping buckets, children and parents everywhere you look and an endless stream of noise. After the first 20 minutes, though, he was obsessed. There's so much for children and parents to do that it became the place we looked forward to going to each day, and it's a great place to spend time even if it's raining. Having this on-site is a huge selling point for Butlin's Skegness.

Since we've been home, we've made a concerted effort to head to a swimming pool with the same levels of excitement as Splash Waterworld most weekends, purely to try and recreate the joy we saw in Oscar's face in that pool. It's immense. We loved it.

Butlin's understands parents, through and through

I've visited plenty of places that claim to be family-friendly, but Butlin's feels like it was designed by parents. Everywhere you look, there are little details that make life easier. Baby-changing facilities aren't tucked away as an afterthought – they're available in both men's and women's toilets, which should be the bare minimum, but for some reason, in most places, it isn't. The swimming pool has family changing areas, so you don't need to worry about splitting the family to get changed. In the restaurants, high chairs are everywhere, and not just one type either. Plus, they're cleaned regularly and come with bibs and wipes. Plus, there are dedicated buggy parking areas throughout the resort, and there's plenty of room.

It's clear someone has thought carefully about the logistical challenges of holidaying with young children. The pathways are wide, accessible and easy to navigate, meaning everything feels safe and manageable on foot. It's essentially pedestrian-only within the resort, which takes away a whole layer of stress. As any parent knows, removing even a handful of daily stress points can transform a holiday experience.

A toddler's dreamworld

If your child is under five, Butlin's Skegness feels particularly well suited to them. We were keen to spend as much time outdoors as possible, and there seemed to be playgrounds around every corner. The famous Skypark is brilliant and offers enough variety to entertain children of all ages, while smaller play areas scattered across the resort mean you're never far from somewhere to stop and play.

Oscar loved the Little Tikes play area, which became one of our favourite stop-offs throughout the trip. It's perfect for burning off energy, especially if the weather isn't playing ball.

The littles' fairground is also ideal for younger visitors. Unlike larger theme parks, where toddlers can feel excluded by height restrictions, there was plenty Oscar could enjoy.

And then there were the shows. One thing that genuinely surprised me was just how much entertainment is included – and for free! From Peppa Pig and Fireman Sam shows to interactive activities, there always seemed to be something happening. At times, we actually found ourselves having to choose between activities because there was simply too much on offer.

One unexpected bonus? Oscar slept brilliantly. At home, bedtime can sometimes be a negotiation. At Butlin's, after full days spent swimming, running around playgrounds, dancing at shows and exploring every corner of the resort, he was absolutely exhausted in the best possible way.

Every evening we'd make the short walk back to our accommodation, pop him into bed, and he'd drift off almost instantly. For parents of toddlers, that's arguably one of the strongest endorsements I can give.

A special mention for the staff

The staff were, without a doubt, exceptional. From restaurant hosts and table-clearers to entertainment staff directing families towards events, everyone we encountered seemed genuinely happy to be there and their joy was infectious.

What stood out most was how warmly they interacted with children. Oscar was regularly greeted by name; staff stopped to say hello and made a genuine effort to engage with him rather than simply speaking through me. Those small moments add up, particularly when you're travelling with a little one.

Nothing was too much trouble, and everyone we encountered was full of positivity, whether it was the first day of our holiday or the last.

Children can be children

One of my favourite things about Butlin's was the complete absence of judgement. Parents of toddlers will know exactly what I mean. There's often an underlying pressure on holiday to keep children quiet, seated or behaving in a particular way. At Butlin's, children are allowed to be children. They dance during shows, they run around, they make noise, and nobody bats an eyelid.

The venues are spacious, with wide walkways, excellent sightlines and plenty of room for buggies. Even during busy performances, it never felt as though families were being squeezed into unsuitable spaces. It's an environment designed around children rather than one that simply tolerates them, and that's so liberating.

The food: perfectly fine, but not the main event

We were on the Premium Dining package during our stay. The best way I'd describe the food is this: it does the job well. There were fresh salads, a decent grill station and plenty of healthier options available throughout the day. Nobody is going hungry, and there is enough variety to keep most families happy.

That said, it is ultimately buffet dining. Think quality canteen food or reliable pub grub rather than a memorable culinary experience. That's not necessarily a criticism: Butlin's isn't pretending to be a luxury food destination. However, if your idea of a holiday revolves around discovering brilliant restaurants and lingering over exceptional meals, you may find the buffet format a little underwhelming. Personally, I think I'd be tempted by the DineAround Dining Plan next time for a bit more variety, as there are so many restaurants on site to choose from. It didn't make sense to spend money at the restaurants when we already had a dining plan in place, so we didn't experience these other than for drinks.

The drinks offering was excellent. We had access to the all-inclusive drinks package, and there was plenty of choice throughout our stay.

Is Butlin's good for older children?

This is one area where I would imagine Butlin's was slightly less impressive. For toddlers and younger children, there is almost too much to do. For older children and teenagers, some of the most appealing activities – including go-karts, climbing walls and certain arcade attractions – come with additional costs.

Many organised activities also wind down by early evening, which is unlikely to be an issue if you're travelling with a toddler who is heading to bed by 7pm anyway, but I can see families with older children noticing it more.

The one area that feels stuck in the past...

If there's one part of the resort I'd happily see modernised, it's the Skyline Pavilion. While it remains the heart of Butlin's and houses plenty of activity, I found it noticeably more dated than the rest of the resort.

Compared with the polished accommodation and well-maintained family facilities elsewhere, parts of it felt tired and could benefit from a refresh. I often found myself gravitating towards other areas of the resort.

So, would I go back?

Before visiting, I wasn't sure if Butlin's was for me. But after a mid-week break at Skegness, I left wondering why I'd waited so long. No, it's not a boutique hotel or a luxury retreat. And if you're searching for peace and quiet at every moment, you may find the atmosphere intense. But if you have a toddler and you're looking for a holiday where almost every detail has been designed to make family life easier, Butlin's gets an awful lot right.

More importantly, Oscar had the time of his life. And as any parent knows, sometimes that's the most important review metric of all. He spent the best part of a week running, climbing, splashing, dancing and exploring, before sleeping more soundly than he has on many of our previous family breaks. As any parent knows, a holiday where your toddler is genuinely happy, thoroughly entertained and sleeping well at the end of each day feels like a rare win.

Showtime Term-Time Midweek breaks from £456 (£114 per person) 
Butlin’s offers a four-night Showtime Term Time Midweek break featuring Peppa Pig and Evie staying in a two-bedroom Maple Walk Premium Lodge in Skegness from £39 on 14 September 2026. Price is based on a family of four sharing and includes all live shows and activities with free-flow access to the pool and unlimited fairground rides and playgrounds, including SKYPARK.

All-inclusive drinks packages with a range of unlimited Proud to Serve Costa Coffee, alcoholic and soft drinks start from £25.95 per adult, per day, £10.50 per child (6-14), per day and are free for under 5s. Dining packages with unlimited breakfast and dinner start from £25.95 per adult, per day, £15.50 per child (6-14), per day and £7.25 per child (2-5), per day. To book, visit butlins.com.

Jade Moscrop is one of the Commercial Content Editors at Bauer Media, writing predominantly for Graiza. When she isn't writing about beauty products, gym leggings and chic homeware items, she can usually be found on a hot girl walk, buying houseplants or listening to Taylor Swift. She recently became a parent for the first time to a very cool little dude.

It's important your baby gets enough vitamin D, and from the moment they enter the world, you should give them tiny drops of vitamin D to help them grow and boost their immune systems. Many baby and toddler vitamins include vitamin D, and it's also recommended to add a vitamin D supplement to your routine if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

From improving our bone health to boosting our immune system, the benefits of vitamin D are endless. Although our daily dose of vitamin D is typically absorbed when we're exposed to the sun on brighter days, babies generally spend less time in the sun than adults. And while certain foods contain vitamin D, supplements are the best way to boost your baby's levels.

To find out how much vitamin D babies need and why it's important, we've spoken to Gail Madalena, registered Clinical Nutritional Therapist and part of the expert consultation team at Wild Nutrition.

How much vitamin D do babies need?

According to the NHS guidance on vitamins, how much vitamin D we should be getting changes depending on each stage of our lives.

 • Babies up to the age of one year need 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day.

 • Children from the age of one year and adults need ten micrograms of vitamin D a day. It includes pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as people at risk of vitamin D deficiency.

 • The government also recommends that all children aged six months to five years be given vitamin supplements containing vitamins A, C and D every day too.

Best baby vitamin D drops

What is vitamin D?

As Gail explains, Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that plays an important role in supporting healthy growth and development in babies. It is best known for helping the body absorb calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. It also supports your baby's developing immune system, playing an important role in helping it mature, adapt and build appropriate responses as a child grows. It can also play a role in muscle function and development.

"Babies can be at a greater risk of low vitamin D levels because they grow very rapidly, increasing their nutritional needs during this stage of life. Vitamin D is naturally found in only a small number of foods, and while we can make it through sunlight exposure, babies have limited direct sun exposure, particularly in countries like the UK."

Do all vitamin D supplements contain the right dose?

As noted, babies up to the age of one year need 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day, and children from the age of one year and adults need 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day.

However, many children's multivitamin supplements have been found to contain less vitamin D than recommended, so it can be hard to be confident that your baby is getting enough. To give you peace of mind, all of the supplements on our list contain the recommended 10mcg (also shown as 10 µg).

Are vitamin D drops necessary for formula-fed babies?

The NHS explains that babies who are having more than 500ml (about a pint) of infant formula a day should not be given vitamin supplements as formula is fortified with vitamins. Gail confirms this, noting that "Breastfed babies are recommended to take a vitamin D supplement from birth, while formula fed babies usually don’t need additional vitamin D if they’re drinking around 500ml or more formula a day, as this is already fortified."

Is it ok to take vitamin D supplements every day?

For babies and young children, vitamin D supplementation is generally recommended throughout the year. As Gail tells us, "unlike adults, babies aren’t exposed to enough direct sunlight to reliably make adequate vitamin D, so year-round support helps ensure consistent intake during this important stage of growth and development."

How do I give vitamin D drops to my breastfed baby?

These drops can be easily dropped into your baby or toddler's mouth. If you're breastfeeding and think your baby would prefer to take their vitamin D supplement while feeding, you can pop a drop of the supplement onto your nipple before your baby latches on and begins their feed.

About the expert

Gail Madalena is a registered Clinical Nutritional Therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and postpartum nutrition and is part of the expert consultation team at Wild Nutrition. She has extensive experience providing the latest, safest, and most scientifically backed nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle advice. Her expertise helps women optimise conception, maintain healthy pregnancies, and navigate the challenges of postpartum life with confidence.

About the author

Stephanie Spencer is the Hub Editor of Motherandbaby.com and has recently welcomed her first baby. She has a digital publishing career spanning over 10 years, starting out as an editorial assistant on medical journals and moving onto become a news writer and features editor.

Her degree in biosciences and previous experience on medical journals mean she has a particular interest in the medical side of pregnancy as well as mental health.

Whirli is a toy subscription service with a difference - you can swap out toys your little ones no longer play with! This economical and environmentally friendly idea means that rather forking out for expensive toys your children will forget about after a couple of weeks and end up in landfill, you can pass their unwanted toys along instead of throwing them away.

How does Whirli work?

1 - Choose your toys

Subscribe to a plan and get Whirli tokens* to spend on toys from a huge library with products suitable from newborns to all the way up to children aged around 8 years old. There are over 1000 toys to choose from, including the latest must-haves. {#h-subscribe-to-a-plan-and-get-whirli-tokens-to-spend-on-toys-from-our-huge-library-there-are-over-1000-toys-to-choose-from-including-the-latest-must-haves}

*(Tokens are used to manage your personalised toy box. 1 Whirli Token equals £1 retail price, so a toy worth £20 at retail costs 20 Tokens.)

2 - Play time! {#h-2-play-time}

This is the fun part - the toys are yours to play with for as long as you want. No time limits, no penalties. Simply keep toys as long as they are still being loved at home.

3 - Do the toy swap {#h-3-do-the-toy-swap}

Send toys back and your account will be credited with equivalent tokens, letting you swap for something else. You don't have to send everything back together, just the unloved toys.

Although accidents may happen, reasonable wear and tear is included in all Whirli plans, and they only stock durable toys so incidents of excess damage are rare.

4 - Or keep them forever {#h-4-or-keep-them-forever}

Don't worry if your child has fallen in love with a toy, you can buy it from Whirli for a less-than-retail price. Any toy you keep for 8 months is yours to keep forever. Try with Whirli and only keep what you love.

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Our tester Emily (and her 1 year old boy and 4 year old girl) put the Whirli toy subscription to the test. Here's what they thought...

How did this product make your life easier?

I think I was as excited as the children to get it all unwrapped, they couldn’t wait to get in and see what toys had arrived!

Everything arrived in lovely condition and was very clean – Whirli sterilise everything before it gets sent out again. I loved the way all the toys were in eco bags, that’s something that’s so important to me, especially when everything seems to come in huge boxes these days with loads of packaging that immediately fills our bins! And it fits in with the recyclable nature of the toys too.

I love the concept of borrowing toys, children go off toys so quickly especially at my little one’s ages. I was so pleased to see the children instantly enjoying the toys and I didn’t have to worry about spending the money if they were only going to enjoy them for a short while, because I could rest easy knowing I could just swap them for something else.

I also like that you can pick and choose which items you want to return and you don’t need to return them all at once. You can even keep them forever if they get attached.

The toy selection has a huge range from large ride on items, to lovely books, there really is something for everyone. It helps to have sections grouped by age range too, there’s so much to choose from I could have spent hours scrolling through!

Would you recommend this to other parents?

I absolutely would recommend this and already have done to my other parent friends. It’s economically friendly and a great way to keep the children interested in toys at home without spending a fortune on new toys and having to store them too. I quite often buy second hand or from sites such as Facebook marketplace to try to keep costs down, and also end up selling on there too! This subscription box takes out the middle man, but you get lovely quality toys.

Would you choose this product above others?

I have never used any toy service like this before, the only thing I can liken it to is taking the children to the library, which they love doing and never lose interest in their new books. I think that idea of new things is so exciting to children, and they don’t mind if it’s been played with or read by someone else before. I’d definitely choose Whirli over buying toys brand new, particularly the expensive ones – it feels like such a waste if they don’t actually use them or lose interest quickly. This way I’m not wasting my money, great for the environment and my pocket too!

What changes would you make to this service?

Nothing! I found the customer service team really helpful when I had some queries. I like how easy it is to swap the toys and return them. Other than one toy sent to us that was incorrect, it’s been a great experience using this service.

One suggestion would be to have some ready to go boxes, so you pop in your children’s age range and gender and it comes up with ready-to-go box suggestions. This would be great for gifting, as well as perhaps new parents or for discovering new toys, as it does take a bit of time having a look through and deciding what you’d like. I guess the good thing is if you do spot something else you can always try it out on your next order!

Trying for a baby can be a difficult and frustrating process for families, and you might be surprised to learn that a common causes of female fertility issues is PCOS. Recently, PCOS has been renamed PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) to better reflect the symptoms. Despite its original name, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is not defined by ovarian cysts in the way many people assume. In fact, many women diagnosed with the condition never develop cysts at all.

Instead, the syndrome is increasingly understood as a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect everything from insulin regulation and weight to skin health, mood and cardiovascular risk.

Although you might have heard of this condition, it’s often not diagnosed until women start to try for a baby.

If you’re concerned about PCOS (PMOS) and want to find out more, we’ve put together some advice for you.

What is PCOS?

PCOS stands for Polycystic ovary syndrome and is a condition that affects a woman's hormone levels. As mentioned, it's recently been changed to PMOS in a roll-out that will be happening until 2028 to better reflect the condition. Women living with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones, and this hormone imbalance can cause their body to miss periods and as a result, it can be a sign you might struggle to get pregnant.

Seeking advice on PCOS before trying for a baby can help women understand how to manage PCOS before starting a family.

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What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Most of the signs and symptoms of PCOS will become apparent during your late teens or early 20s.

Common symptoms of PCOS can include:

• irregular periods or no periods at all. This may also include period pain with no period

• difficulty getting pregnant as a result of irregular or late ovulation or failure to ovulate

• excessive hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest, back or buttocks

• weight gain

• thinning hair and hair loss from the head

• oily skin or acne

• depression and mood swings

Himanshu Borase, Fertility Specialist and Consultant Gynaecologist at Hertsfertility says:

“One third of the people who I see at fertility clinics suffer from PCOS and we always try our best to educate and empower them. There is a great need for more understanding of the options available and a more open conversation around fertility”.

If you think you might have PCOS, it's important to see your doctor and begin the diagnosis process.

How can PCOS impact fertility?

Women with PCOS don’t regularly release eggs, so conceiving can be difficult. Management and treatment is usually assessed on a case-by-case basis and treatment options can involve dietary changes, reducing BMI, supplements to reduce insulin resistance, and other special treatments such as ovulation induction (medicine to release the egg and timed intercourse), surgery for ovarian diathermy and IVF. The aim is to help patients conceive spontaneously where possible.

Fertility Family share the following advice:

“Openly discussing personal issues such as PCOS and infertility can be difficult, but the more we encourage these conversations, the more open women will become about fertility issues and the need for further education. Many women with PCOS will have difficulties getting pregnant, there are actions these women can take to improve their chances such as; lifestyle changes, losing weight where necessary, taking a suitable fertility supplement for PCOS, and seeking specialist help early. It is also important to remember that fertility problems can be due to male factors, so always consider both partners in all scenarios regarding fertility”.

How to manage PCOS

It’s important to identify these symptoms as early on as possible and get advice from a specialist and a fertility expert if you are planning to conceive or struggling to conceive. The best way to manage it depends on the severity of the symptoms and the extent to which they affect your quality of life. Where someone might be uncomfortable and another may want to conceive, management for all these will be different. General advice is to lead a healthy lifestyle, maintain a BMI between 19-25 and take regular exercise.

Diet

“When I am working with PCOS clients my first aim is to get their blood sugars under control.’ says Registered Nutritional Therapist Harriett Eldridge. “Secondly, I want to ensure that they are having healthy regular bowel movements (type 3-4 on the Bristol stool chart) and thirdly support their gut health.”

Any diets should be all about balance in what you eat. You might want to start by reducing your intake of refined carbohydrates such as white bread, white pasta, potato, cakes and pastries and swap these for high protein options like hummus, eggs, chickpeas & avocado. This will help to balance blood sugars, reduce cravings and support weight management.

You should also minimise processed foods and aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, whole grains, healthy fats and fibre to support your gut health.

Exercise

It might surprise you to hear that there is a close link between PCOS and mental health, particularly anxiety and depression. Not only is exercise important for keeping healthy, it can also benefit you mentally too.

Exercise can help increase your metabolic rate, reduce insulin resistance and stabilise mood. When you’re doing your workouts, try to incorporate a good amount of both cardio and strength training, aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise every other day.

• Cardio workouts include: brisk walks, jogging, cycling, swimming.

• Strength Training includes: Squats, press ups and core exercises (using your body weight rather than weights) can help increase your muscle mass and therefore the function of insulin in the body.

CBD

Many women have been turning to CBD to help treat both the emotional and physical pain often brought on by PCOS.

Jen, 22, who lives with PCOS said: “I was diagnosed with PCOS and have quite a lot of side effects including bloating, erratic mood swings, and bad cramps in my stomach. I was tired of putting on a brave face”.

After making lifestyle and diet changes, she was still struggling, so tried CBD to find out if it could help. “My mood literally changed within like literally a couple of days. It was magical. Within three days I went back to being on top form.”

CBD drops are administered under the tongue with dosage and time of application done to meet individual needs “The pain completely disappeared within a week and I honestly haven’t had any pain since. It’s kind of hard to fathom the fact that this bit of CBD oil might actually have changed my whole pain and made all those symptoms go away, but it genuinely has.”

Supplements

Supplements shouldn’t be taken to replace food groups or a healthy diet, but they can help to top up levels of what you need without you having to eat four platefuls of broccoli each sitting, which lets be honest, isn’t going to happen.

In general, these are some of the commonly recognised supplements that are beneficial for PCOS.

• Vitamin D

• B12

• Omega 3

• Zinc

• Chromium

• Probiotics

Be aware that these certainly aren’t a one pill fix, and if you do decide to take supplements along with your usual diet, take the time to consider any changes positive or negative to your emotional and physical state to ensure you’re only making changes that work for you. It might be a good idea to keep a diary to record any diet and lifestyle changes and how your mood and physical symptoms change.

Prescriptions

It’s important to speak to your doctor if you feel you’re struggling with PCOS as there are prescription medicines available to help ease the symptoms.

• Hair Growth - Increased hair and acne: the oral contraceptive pill, and referral to a dermatologist. Anti-androgen drugs can also be prescribed.

• Period Regulation - the oral contraceptive pill is the first line of treatment. In patients who do not want to take the pill, cyclical progestogen drugs can be prescribed.

All of these must be prescribed by a medical health professional.

Where can people seek support for PCOS?

Additional information and advice on PCOS and infertility:

Hertsfertility multidisciplinary team patient education leaflet on the long-term effects of PCOS and management advice

Verity is a charity that aims to educate, support and empower women with PCOS through encouraging research and improving access to treatment.

Wellbeing of Women is a charity that invests in pioneering women’s health research to develop new tests, treatments and cures.

HFEA, the government regulator, provides free, clear and impartial information on UK fertility clinics, IVF and other types of fertility treatment, and donation.

Fertility Network UK is the number one charity for anyone experiencing fertility problems in the UK. They run a range of local online support groups.

About the author

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics surrounding all things motherhood and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips.

It’s a bright, sunny day in London when we meet Olivia and Alex Bowen. The couple, who rose to fame and found love on ITV’s hit show Love Island, are in the capital for a Johnson's Baby event. They bring an easy warmth to the room, chatting effortlessly with guests and exchanging quiet, affectionate glances. A decade on from their time on the show, it’s clear their connection hasn’t faded. If anything, it feels stronger than ever.

It’s hard to believe that Love Island favourites Olivia and Alex Bowen first appeared on our screens back in 2016. The season before we met the likes of Montana Brown. Finishing as runners-up on series two didn’t stop them from winning over the public, and they’ve remained firmly in the spotlight ever since.

Their love story quickly moved beyond the villa. In 2017, they got engaged, before making history a year later as the first Love Island couple to tie the knot. They married at Gosfield Hall in a lavish Essex ceremony surrounded by hundreds of guests.

Fast forward a few years, and their story entered a new chapter. In 2022, they announced they were expecting their first child, later welcoming their son, Abel (AJ). Their family grew again in August 2025 with the arrival of their daughter, Siena Grace.

So in true Mother&Baby fashion, we couldn't wait to catch up with them to find out what life really looks like beyond the cameras, in the beautifully chaotic world of parenthood.

From fire pit to night feeds

For Olivia and Alex, the jump from villa life to parenthood wasn’t as different as you might expect. “Parenthood is like Love Island in a way, you’re thrown into something with no training, thinking you know what to expect… and you don’t,” Alex says. “You just learn on the job.”

It’s a sentiment Olivia agrees with, reflecting on how both experiences came with a steep learning curve and no real rulebook. “Every baby is different. Every parent is different,” she explains. “You can get advice from people, but you kind of just have to figure it out as you go.”

But while Love Island may have been life-changing, it doesn’t quite compare to what came next. “Seeing your baby for the first time can't be compared to that,” Olivia says. “It’s the most euphoric thing, but it’s scary as well.”

And just like their whirlwind rise to fame, becoming parents meant adjusting fast. “When we came out of the show, everything blew up overnight, and we didn’t know how to deal with it,” Alex admits. “It’s the same with having a kid. You think you know, but you don’t.”

Teamwork makes the dream work (just about)

If Love Island tested their chemistry, parenthood has tested their teamwork, and according to Olivia and Alex, communication is everything. “I think communication is the biggest thing,” Olivia says. “Especially when you’ve had no sleep.”

The early days, they admit, were a shock to the system. “We kind of just became roommates,” Alex adds, describing the all-consuming nature of newborn life. “You don’t have time for yourselves.”

But experience has changed things the second time around. “Because we know how it got before, we speak a lot more now,” he explains. “Liv will do the night, then I’ll get up early and let her sleep; it’s just about finding that balance.”

For Olivia, it comes down to understanding each other’s strengths. “It’s a lot of give and take,” she says. “You play to what you’re good at, we’ve kind of worked it out now.”

That’s not to say they’ve mastered it completely. “It’s not perfect,” Alex admits. “We’re not the best parents in the world.” But what they have figured out is how to move forward as a team. “We’ve learned how to work together rather than against each other.”

And sometimes, that teamwork means a gentle reality check. “You have to remind yourself, they’re three years old,” Alex laughs. “And to be the grown-up.”

Still coupled up (just with less sleep)

Between nursery runs, sleepless nights and the general whirlwind of family life, it would be easy for any couple to lose sight of each other, but for Olivia and Alex, staying connected is a conscious effort.

“I think we still have fun together,” Olivia says. “Even if it’s just little moments.”

Because the reality is, parenting can blur the lines between being partners and simply co-existing. “You’re so in tune with being a parent that you forget Olivia and Alex exist,” she admits.

But it’s in those rare pockets of time, whether it’s a quick trip out or even just sitting together on the train, that they find their way back to each other. “You’re like, ‘Oh… we still do like each other,’” Alex laughs.

It’s that shared humour that keeps things grounded. “We still laugh at the same things, take the mick out of each other,” Olivia adds. “We just try to stay light-hearted.”

Because while parenting can be intense, they’ve learned not to let it define everything. “It can get really serious,” Olivia says. “So it’s nice to hold onto the fun parts.”

And at the heart of it all is something simple but intentional. “We say ‘I love you’ a lot, in front of the kids,” Alex shares. “We want them to grow up seeing that.”

From public votes to personal choices

Having built their relationship in the public eye, Olivia and Alex are no strangers to outside opinions, but these days, they’re far more selective about what they let in.

“I don’t really care what people think,” Alex says frankly. “People see 40 minutes of a 24-hour day and think they know you, but they don’t.”

Instead, his focus is firmly on those closest to him. “The only opinions I care about are my friends and family.”

That mindset has carried over into parenting, too, where judgement can feel constant, especially online. “If someone says, ‘you’re doing that wrong,’ it doesn’t bother me,” he adds. “Everyone parents differently.”

Olivia agrees, admitting it’s easy to get caught in the comparison trap. “There’s so much online now, it’s hard not to think, ‘Am I doing this right?’” she says. “But you have to trust your instincts.”

For the couple, having two children only reinforced that belief. “They’re so different,” Alex explains. “It just shows there’s no one way to do it.”

No gold star for school places

Like many parents, Olivia and Alex have also faced the emotional rollercoaster of primary school applications, something Olivia admits pushed her out of her comfort zone. “Parenthood is hard for me because I revel in control,” she says. “And a lot of parenting, you’re just not in control.” When Abel didn’t get the school they’d hoped for, it came as a shock. “You expect something to go one way, and it goes the complete opposite direction.”

But the experience ultimately shifted their perspective. “We had to stop and think, what does Abel actually need?” Olivia explains. Leaning on advice from other parents helped too. “I reached out and got so much kind advice, like how to appeal a school place; it gave me the confidence to look at other options.”

More than just a villa love story

A decade on from Love Island, it’s clear that Olivia and Alex are no longer the twenty-somethings who first walked into the villa, something they’re both quick to acknowledge.

For Olivia, motherhood has reshaped not just her life, but her sense of self. “Back then, it was very much ‘fake it till you make it,’” she admits. “Whereas now, you can’t do that, you have to do the inner work.” It’s a shift that’s brought a deeper kind of confidence. “Motherhood has shown me who I really am. I probably didn’t know her before.”

Alex, too, reflects on how becoming a parent has redefined his outlook, particularly when it comes to strength and masculinity. “Being a man now is knowing when to be strong and when to show emotion,” he says. “It’s not just about providing anymore.” Having experienced loss in his own life, it’s something he’s especially mindful of passing on. “I want my son to have resilience, but also to be open.”

Together, they’ve grown not just as individuals, but as a couple navigating life well beyond reality TV. “We’ve had the wildest ten years,” Alex says. “Doing things we never could have imagined.”

And while their lives today may look very different from the ones that first captured the public’s attention, one thing hasn’t changed: their willingness to evolve. Because for Olivia and Alex, this was never just a villa love story. It was the beginning of everything that came after.

A moment of calm

For Olivia and Alex, the partnership with Johnson's Baby feels like a natural extension of their day-to-day life, rooted in the small, meaningful moments that define parenthood.

It’s in the everyday rituals that those moments really come to life. “Bath time is our calm moment,” she says, describing a rare pause in otherwise busy days. “Just the smell of Johnson's Bedtime Bath reminds me of all those little moments with the kids.

About the author

Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.

For many women, giving birth can feel daunting. From fear of the unknown to the possibility of interventions during labour, there’s a long list of concerns many pregnant women carry into childbirth.

Words like forceps and ventouse can sound especially intimidating, particularly during a first pregnancy. So news of a brand-new birth device designed to make assisted deliveries gentler has sparked huge interest among expectant mums across Europe.

The device is called OdonAssist™, and it’s already being described as one of the biggest advances in childbirth technology in decades.

Developed with the help of doctors, midwives, researchers and hundreds of mums in Bristol, the device has now officially been approved for routine use across Europe after years of testing and clinical trials.

Even more remarkably, it’s the first new assisted vaginal birth device to enter clinical practice since the 1950s, something many say highlights how little innovation and funding maternity care has historically received worldwide.

Dr Emily Hotton, who has worked on the OdonAssist™ trials for almost a decade, says the arrival of the device has been a long time coming.

“It is amazing that it’s finally here, because it’s been a long journey,” she tells Mother&Baby.

So what exactly is OdonAssist™, who can have it, and could it change the future of childbirth?

What is OdonAssist™?

OdonAssist™ is a new medical device designed to help doctors safely assist births when labour becomes difficult or stalls during the final stage.

Instead of using traditional metal forceps or a suction cup, the device uses a soft inflatable air cuff that is gently placed around the baby’s head during labour.

Doctors can then carefully guide the baby through the birth canal during contractions.

Explaining it in simple terms, Dr Hotton says: “It is a soft air cuff that gets placed around the whole of the baby’s head. That air cuff is there to help guide the baby through the birth canal with the mum pushing and the operator helping guide that baby through.”

The hope is that the device could offer a gentle alternative for some assisted births, potentially reducing discomfort and injury for both mums and babies.

However, Dr Hotton is careful to explain that while the device has been designed to be gentler, doctors cannot yet claim it is officially “gentler than” forceps or ventouse until further large-scale comparative trials are complete.

“We can say it is a gentle alternative, or we can say it has been designed to be gentler,” she explains. “But we can’t say this device is gentler than forceps or ventouse yet, because scientifically, from a data perspective, we need randomised control trial data.”

Why are people talking about it?

Assisted births are more common than many people realise.

Sometimes during labour:

• A baby may need help being delivered quickly
• Labour may stop progressing
• Mum may become exhausted
• Doctors may become concerned about the baby’s wellbeing

In these situations, doctors currently use:

• Forceps (metal instruments placed around the baby’s head)
• Ventouse (a suction cup device)

These tools are used safely and successfully every day. But they can sometimes lead to:

• Tears or soft tissue injuries for mums
• Bruising or swelling for babies
• Anxiety around birth experiences
• Longer recovery times

Dr Hotton stresses that forceps and ventouse remain important, life-saving tools, but says the lack of innovation in assisted birth has left maternity teams searching for another option.

“The tools that we have are life-saving in lots of situations, but they are flawed,” she says. “We use forceps and ventouse knowing that there are risks associated with them. What the team wanted to do was explore a gentle alternative device that we can use in place of forceps and ventouse.”

According to doctors involved in the trials, OdonAssist™ may help reduce some of those risks while still helping avoid emergency caesarean sections in certain situations.

Dr Hotton says one of the most noticeable findings during the trials was how babies looked immediately after birth.

“From an obstetrician’s perspective, that was the most overwhelming thing that was most apparent at the time of seeing the baby,” she says. “Often there was no or minimal bruising to baby.”

In the trials, she says only a small number of babies had a bruise or mark that could have been linked to the device.

“There’s no systematic bruising or injury,” she explains. “Unlike ventouse, where you expect swelling on the head, or forceps, where you expect to see marks on the face, with Odon we don’t see that typical pattern of bruising.”

Dr Claire Rose has also said that when babies are more comfortable after birth, it can help support bonding between newborns and their families.

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Bristol mums helped make it happen

One of the most inspiring parts of the OdonAssist™ story is that local women played a huge role in bringing the device into reality.

Southmead Hospital became the first hospital in Europe to use the device in an assisted vaginal birth back in 2018.

Hundreds of mums volunteered to take part in research trials called ASSIST and ASSIST II, helping doctors test the device’s safety and effectiveness.

Dr Hotton says women were central to the research from the beginning, not only through clinical trials, but also through interviews and feedback about what mattered to them during birth.

“Because this was new, we kind of just wanted to know everything,” she says. “We looked at outcomes for baby, including soft tissue injury, bruising and marks, and outcomes for women, including things like tears. But beyond all of that data, we did a lot of qualitative research, so interviews with the women, midwives and operators.”

She says the response from women involved in the trials was striking.

“Women were really empowered that we were taking maternity innovation seriously,” she says. “They really wanted to be part of the narrative for possible improvement.”

Dr Joanna Crofts praised the women who took part, saying mothers in Bristol were “extraordinarily generous” in supporting the research.

Dr Hotton agrees, adding: “We wouldn’t be here without the brave women in Bristol who said yes.”

Funding support also came from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

Is OdonAssist™ available now?

Yes, but only in certain hospitals for now.

In spring 2025, OdonAssist™ received CE approval, meaning it was officially approved for routine use across Europe.

Since July 2025, more than 300 babies have been safely delivered using the device. However, the rollout is still happening gradually.

Hospitals introducing the device need:

• Specialist staff training
• New maternity guidelines
• Simulation practice for clinicians
• Careful safety monitoring

Dr Hotton says eight NHS trusts are currently using the device, with around 20 more in a set-up phase.

“There are eight NHS trusts in the UK currently using the device, and about 20 or so trusts that are in a set-up phase,” she explains. “It takes a while for the governance, procedures and processes to align in place with the hospital.”

She adds that training is an important part of introducing the device safely.

“We come in and provide a training programme to the obstetricians, and information to the whole multi-professional team, to make sure everyone has the most information possible about the device.”

That means not every maternity unit currently offers it. Southmead Hospital is expected to begin offering OdonAssist™ routinely from summer 2026.

Who might be eligible for an OdonAssist™ birth?

Right now, OdonAssist™ is mainly being used in carefully selected assisted births.

Women who may be eligible are typically:

• Already in labour
• Having a vaginal birth
• In the later stages of delivery
• In situations where doctors believe assisted birth is needed

Dr Hotton explains that assisted birth is only considered at the end of labour.

“Assisted birth can only happen when the woman is fully dilated, in the second stage, or pushing stage, of labour,” she says. “That is when we can safely perform assisted birth.”

It may be recommended if doctors are concerned about the baby, or if mum has been pushing for a long time and the baby has not yet been born.

“They tend to be either if the baby is showing signs that they are getting unhappy and we’re worried about the baby, or that the mum has been pushing for a prolonged period of time and still hasn’t birthed her baby,” says Dr Hotton.

Whether the device can be used depends on several factors, including baby’s position, how far down the baby is in the pelvis, clinical safety considerations and whether trained staff are available.

Dr Hotton says babies must be head-first, as with other assisted births.

“The baby has to be head first, and that’s the same for all assisted births,” she says. “If the baby is very high, then OdonAssist wouldn’t be suitable.”

For now, many women may simply want to discuss it as part of their birth plan conversations with their maternity team.

Could OdonAssist™ replace forceps?

Not completely, at least not anytime soon. Doctors still expect forceps and ventouse to remain important tools in maternity care because different situations require different approaches.

But OdonAssist™ could become another option for women and clinicians to consider.

Dr Hotton says the device could be especially significant because many women do not expect assisted birth to happen to them, despite how common it can be, particularly in a first labour.

“One in eight women in the UK have an assisted birth, but when you look at first-time labourers, it’s one in three,” she says. “I think part of our problem is antenatal education. We need to try and equip women with this knowledge.”

She says discussing assisted birth before labour can help women feel more prepared if it becomes necessary.

“It’s a really emotive time, and that’s why I think it’s really important to talk about assisted birth antenatally, before we get to that point where they might need assistance.”

For many expectant mums, having more choice around childbirth is exactly the kind of thing that helps them feel calmer and more in control ahead of labour.

What happens if it does not work?

As with any assisted birth device, OdonAssist™ may not be successful in every situation. Dr Hotton says doctors would then reassess mum and baby before deciding on the next step. “The same as with any other device, we would re-examine the woman and make a plan with them as to what we think would be the next step,” she says.

That could mean using a second OdonAssist™ device, recommending another assisted birth tool, or moving to a caesarean birth, depending on the specific circumstances.

“It would be very specific to that mum and that baby at that time, based on our examination findings and also the woman’s preference.”

Why this matters for future mums

Childbirth technology hasn’t changed dramatically in generations. Forceps have existed for centuries, while ventouse devices became widely used in the mid-1900s. That means many women today are still experiencing assisted birth methods similar to those used by their mothers and grandmothers.

That’s why OdonAssist™ feels so significant. It represents a modern rethink of assisted birth, driven by research centred on women’s experiences and shaped through collaboration between doctors, midwives, engineers and families, offering a much-needed step towards gentler maternity care.

Dr Hotton says her biggest message to pregnant women is that assisted birth is only recommended when clinicians believe it is the safest option at that moment.

“Assisted birth is recommended if we feel that is the safest option for you and your baby at that time,” she says. “The decisions that we make at the end of labour on how to assist your birth are done completely with your guidance and your preference.”

Most importantly, she says the development shows that there are people working hard to improve maternity care for women and babies.

“There are groups of people that are really striving and working hard to implement alternative options and change for women, to support gentle alternatives,” says Dr Hotton. “We are doing this for the women that we serve and that we look after.”

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics surrounding all things motherhood and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips.

Welcoming a new baby is an exciting time, but it can also add to the financial strain of a household budget, especially when the cost of living has jumped so high in recent years. If you're a two-income household, maternity pay can be a struggle, so clever ways to budget and spend your money in a savvy way are must-have skills for any new parent.

With helpful tips from financial experts and clear information about your rights as new parents, here’s how you can save money.

1. Choose reusable nappies

In 2021, the government's money advice service MoneyHelper estimated an overall saving of £1,475 over the first two and a half years if you switched to reusable nappies. Alongside this, it's been found that local authorities can save up to £11 in their waste disposal budget for every £1 spent on reusable nappy schemes.

To encourage more families to try reusable nappies, many councils offer vouchers, cash back offers, trial nappies or discounts. In some areas, you could get a voucher worth up to £70 to help with the upfront cost of buying reusable nappies, or to put towards a washable nappy laundry service. Contact your local council to enquire if they've got such a scheme in operation, and if they don't, consider writing to your local councillors and ask them to introduce one. For more information, visit Nappy Alliance.

Also consider using reusable baby wet wipes and breast pads, too. They're all safe to use and will not only take the pressure off your bank balance but will also help the environment. That's a huge win in our books!

2. Become a M&B tester and make the most of freebies and other discounts

When you're on maternity leave, it can be tricky to make ends meet with the reduction in earnings. So, make the most of sample freebies and discounts to help your money stretch further. The Mother&Baby Awards run every year and we have hundreds of products across categories such as travel, playtime, feeding, nursery accessories, toiletries, and products for mums. They all need to be tested by real parents and tots and most of the time, you can keep them after testing! All we need in exchange is a review and original imagery. Registration is closed for this year, but will reopen early next year.

Some brands like Bounty and Ella's Kitchen offer freebies to parents in exchange for their personal data. The contents vary, but most include samples and money-off vouchers for baby products.

Tip: Follow your favourite baby brands on social media so you're alerted as soon as any big discounts or flash sales become available.

Many online stores offer discounts on your first purchase when you sign up for their email list. Sign up for Boots Parenting Club and download the Boots app for gifts and extra points when you purchase baby items. Similarly, the Amazon Baby Wish List offers free next-day delivery if you're an Amazon Prime plus, enough, enjoy a 15% discount on eligible baby items in your Baby Wishlist and save up to £300.

Both Sainsbury’s and Boots also hold periodic Baby & Toddler Events. These are the perfect times to stock up on all your essentials.

Another savvy way to save money is by attending The Baby Show. The event runs in London and Birmingham, and although you have to pay to attend (advance tickets are £16), you get to discover new brands and pick up a ton of freebies and discounts.

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3. Swap, borrow and hire what you can

Avoid spending money by borrowing or swapping baby stuff with friends and family. Sign up to local community groups on Facebook or its own online platform, Facebook Marketplace, where you can pick up bits new or second hand.

Search sites such as Gumtree and Freecycle, where people doing a clear out will be happy to pass on clothes, baby equipment or toys they no longer need for free.

Swap clothes with local mums and take a look at companies like The Little Loop, where you can hire branded clothes for growing little ones. Many local councils also have toy libraries that allow you to hire toys suitable for your little one's age, and companies like Whirli allow you to rent toys. When it comes to books, head to the local library.

4. Buy preloved

Babies outgrow clothes fast, and you'll be amazed at what you can find in charity shops and at car boot sales. Buying clothes, toys and baby books second hand from these places will save you a fortune. Also check out local charity shops, car boots, Facebook Marketplace and even Vinted, which can be a treasure trove of pre-loved baby products, from clothes (even maternity clothes, if you're still expecting) to buggies and other baby equipment. Once you realise the bargains to be had, you'll never look back!

5. Buy products that will last a lifetime

When making big purchases, try to find products that will grow with your child. For example, a car seat suitable from birth to age 12, a highchair that converts into a toddler chair, or a cot that converts into a bed. These purchases will likely mean a larger initial cost. But it'll save money in the long run. Also consider multi-use items, such as a bedside crib that's portable and can compactly fold so you can take it on your travels instead of purchasing a separate travel cot. And, make sure to sign up for and check cashback sites such as TopCashback to ensure you're making savings on those big purchases.

6. Feeding on a budget

When it comes to baby weaning, keep it simple and budget-friendly. Save money by avoiding ready meals and home-cooking simple recipes instead, avoiding sugar and salt. Carrot, sweet potato, parsnips, swede, cauliflower and broccoli are good introductory foods. If you get a chance, drawing up a toddler meal plan, batch cooking homemade baby meals and purees and then freezing them will ensure your baby gets healthy food and save you time in the long run.

You'll no doubt see ranges of 'baby-specific' food on the market - baby porridge, baby rice, etc, but try and get products from budget-friendly supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi rather than leading baby brands.

7. Create a babysitters' club

Depending on where you live, babysitters can cost up to £20 an hour - add that to the cost of dinner, drinks and taxis, and you might not be bothered to go out at all! Heidi Skudder from Positively Parenthood says, "Save money on babysitting costs by asking friends or family members to help out for a few hours. We are so bad at asking for help in today's world that we forget that often, friends and family are happy to help out. As a mother of three, I have had to teach myself to be OK with asking for a few hours of babysitting here or there from friends and family. I still don't always love asking, but it saves hiring a nanny or babysitter, and almost all of the time, your friends or family are honoured to be asked."

8. Keep the nursery simple

Lucy Shrimpton, Sleep and Wellbeing expert and founder of The Sleep Nanny, says: 'Don't over-complicate the nursery unless it brings you joy. Remember, your baby won't care what the nursery looks like at such a young age. So, keep things simple.' Before you buy anything, ask yourself three things: 1. Is it practical? 2. Will it save you time? 3. How long will you use it for? If it's under a month – or even six months – is there an alternative, cheaper option?

9. Buy own-brand medicine

For too long, clever marketing tactics have made us believe that buying big brand names means more benefits. When it comes to medicine and vitamins, you don’t need to buy expensive branded products. Supermarket or pharmacy own-brand products work just as well and cost far less, and yes, this also includes baby medicine. According to the MHRA (The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), the main differences are price, packaging, and inactive ingredients.

10. Find free events

Family days out can get really expensive. So, searching for free things to do with the kids is a great idea to keep little ones entertained for less. Galleries, museums, and country parks are all great places to spend a day with the kids without breaking the bank.

It’s also worth looking out for 2-for-1 tickets and free child tickets on product packaging next time you’re doing your food shop. These vouchers are normally available for bigger attractions, and other attractions can offer parent and toddler weekday tickets at a cheaper price.

Head to your local library to take part in a host of free classes to keep little ones entertained during the week. Most libraries run free rhyme time and story time classes for babies and toddlers. These sessions are a great way to help you save money on expensive club memberships, plus you’ll be able to meet other parents. Meet local mums via mum groups on Facebook, and you can go for walks together, plan playdates and more. Church groups often host toddler events, and these are usually open to the whole community regardless of religious belief.

11. Free prescriptions

In England, you qualify for free prescriptions while you're pregnant and for a year after the baby is born, and you're also entitled to free NHS dental care during this time. You can claim by filling out a Maternity Exemption form (FW8), which is available from your GP or midwife.

12. Child benefit

As of 7 April 2025, Child Benefit payments have increased by 1.7% giving families a little financial boost. Now parents will receive £26.05 per week or £1,354.60 a year for the eldest, and £17.25 per week or £897 a year for each additional child. It can be claimed by parents or guardians once you have registered your child's birth and can be claimed up the age of 16, or 20 if your child stays in education or training.

It's a boost to your household finances. But alongside this, Child Benefit ensures parents qualify for National Insurance credits, which can help protect their state pension, and it also helps children automatically receive a National Insurance number when they reach 16. To check eligibility and make a claim, visit GOV.UK Child Benefit can be used with Tax-Free Childcare.

13. Funded childcare

Childcare is one of the biggest costs facing working parents. Eligible working parents in England can claim 30 hours of government-funded childcare for children aged nine months up until they start school.

These hours are usually spread over 38 weeks of the year (during school term time), but they can also be stretched over up to 52 weeks if you use fewer hours per week.

To be eligible, each working parent must earn more than £9,518 per year (the equivalent of 16 hours a week at National Minimum Wage), and neither parent can earn more than £100,000 per year.

14. Tax-Free childcare

Tax-free childcare is a government-funded top-up scheme to help eligible families across the UK with their childcare costs. Working families, including those who are self-employed, can receive up to £2,000 a year per child - or £4,000 if your child is disabled - to put towards the cost of childcare. Simply put, for every £8 paid into a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government tops it up with another £2.

You can receive up to £500 (or £1,000 if your child is disabled) every three months for each eligible child. The scheme is for working parents or guardians who:

• Have a child or children aged up to 11. They stop being eligible on 1 September after their 11th birthday. If your child has a disability, you can receive support until 1 September after their 16th birthday

• Earn, or expect to earn, at least the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week, on average

• Each earn up to £100,000 per annum

• Do not receive tax credits, Universal Credit or childcare vouchers

The benefits of using Tax-Free Childcare

One of the benefits of using Tax-Free Childcare is the flexibility. Because it can be used for any approved childcare provider. If you use a combination of childcare providers, you can use it to pay them all. It can also be used alongside the 15 or 30 hours free childcare offers, and to help pay for any specialist equipment needed for a disabled child when they're attending childcare. Each eligible child requires a separate Tax-Free Childcare account. So, you'll need to register an account for each child. The government top-up is then applied to deposits made for each child, not household.

How to open an account

It's simple to open a Tax-Free Childcare account and takes about 20 minutes via GOV.UK. Any unused money in the account can be withdrawn at any time.

15. Plan ahead

Now that you've got the basics of making the most of your money after welcoming a new child, it's time to get further savings in motion by getting into the habit of planning ahead. Keeping an eye out on sale and buying out for season is a great way to significantly reduce the amount of money you spend. For example, the pre-Christmas toy sales start after summer and you can save on big brands. In the end of summer sales, stock up on shorts and t-shirts in the next size up to be worn the following year. Look out for Amazon Prime Day too and you can pick up breast pumps and pushchairs at incredible prices. In the Christmas sales, grab those reduced price kiddie Christmas jumpers, and reduced gift wrapping paper. Planning ahead not only means you get items at the best price, but it also helps to spread the cost of big spend times of the year such as Christmas and birthdays.

16. Sign up to the M&B newsletter

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About the author

Keya Modessa is our Senior Digital Writer, bringing over a decade of digital experience to Mother&Baby. With a BA Hons degree in Journalism and Sociology, she has contributed to M&B for just under a year and is also a mum of two. Her extensive portfolio includes work for national women's magazines, Food and Travel, and Muddy Stilettos.

The iCandy Peach has long been considered one of the most recognisable premium pushchairs on the market. Now in its eighth generation, the Peach 8 promises refined styling, enhanced airflow, improved suspension and thoughtful design upgrades for growing families.

Available in a range of colourways, it is designed to take parents from newborn days right through to toddlerhood. Mum-to-be Chloe has been putting the iCandy Peach 8 in Coffee Bean to the test ahead of her baby’s arrival. Here, she shares her honest first impressions.

Testing the iCandy Peach 8

We already had the iCandy Cocoon car seat, so choosing an iCandy pram for our daughter felt like the obvious choice for us. We were drawn to the Peach 8, having heard of the iconic Peach range before, and were impressed by the additional features and upgrades in this new edition.

There were plenty of colours to choose from across two collections, and we went for Coffee Bean. It is a deep brown fabric that feels like a great neutral and looks both stylish and practical.

Build

When our iCandy Peach 8 arrived, it felt like Christmas and I could not wait to start putting it together. The pram was packaged very securely and arrived in two boxes. One contained the pram base and carrycot, and the other housed the accessories.

I would say the number of individual pieces felt quite overwhelming as first-time parents who had never built a pram before.

The instructions were simple and relied solely on diagrams, which we actually found a little confusing. We ended up watching the assembly videos on the iCandy website, which were much easier to follow. In total, it took us around two hours to build. That did feel quite long, but much of that was down to us being new to prams. Once it is built, it is built, so thankfully it is not something we will be assembling regularly.

The trickiest part was folding the pram down. The carrycot itself was very easy to release and fold with the click of a button. Folding the frame, however, took a little more practice. It took us a while to realise you need to bump the bar, but once we worked that out, folding it became straightforward.

I drive a compact Hyundai i20, so we tested whether it would fit in the boot. I was pleasantly surprised that it did, without needing to remove the wheels. It is a bit of a squeeze, but for a full travel system, I was impressed with how well it fit into such a small car.

There is also an under-basket that holds up to 10kg, which is perfect for shopping trips and more than big enough for our needs. The pram feels lighter than I expected, and it is easy to manoeuvre up kerbs, over bumps and around tight corners. We really like the sense of stability and security that comes with the Peach 8’s size.

Usability

We tested the pram on both grass and pavement and were very impressed. The puncture-proof tyres and advanced suspension mean it glides smoothly across different terrains without rattling.

We practised swapping the carrycot for the toddler seat and found this much easier than the initial build of the carrycot. We still referred to a video, but the switch took around 20 minutes in total.

As we already have the iCandy Cocoon car seat, we also tested attaching it using the car seat adaptors. It clicked into place easily, which will be ideal for quick shopping trips or appointments with our newborn.

One standout feature is that the carrycot is approved by The Lullaby Trust. It has been designed with increased airflow and can be suitable for permanent overnight sleeping, which we found reassuring in case of emergencies. It offers more than double the airflow of the Peach 7, which gives added peace of mind.

The extendable canopy includes UPF protection, which is essential as our baby is due in the summer. It unzips easily and includes an additional mesh ventilation panel to help with airflow.

The Peach 8 also includes an integrated ride-on board, which is ideal for growing families and removes the need to purchase an additional buggy board.

Performance

We were really impressed with the brakes. They are described as flip-flop friendly, and having tested the pushchair during warm weather I can confirm they are. There is also a clear colour indicator system, red and green, so you can easily see when the brake is engaged.

The toddler seat features a five-point harness that is simple to adjust, along with an adjustable head support so it can grow with your child. The pushchair is suitable from birth up to 25kg, making it a long-term investment. Everything feels generously padded to ensure comfort.

Although you can also just buy the pushchair and carrycot, we went for the Peach 8 pushchair bundle which comes with coordinating accessories, including a changing bag, parasol, cup holder and screen for additional sun protection. I love how cohesive everything looks. The changing bag can be attached to the pram or worn as a backpack, which will be very practical.

Final thoughts

Overall, we think the iCandy Peach 8 is brilliant, offering a safe and secure ride from newborn through to toddler years. Although the instructions could have been clearer and the initial build was a little challenging, this is not something that needs to be done regularly.

It has that iconic iCandy look, and the Coffee Bean colourway really stands out. The pushchair is made using premium recycled fabrics, so alongside the stylish design, there is also a more sustainable element.

The Peach 8 sits at the premium end of the market and is certainly an investment, but the quality of the design and finish reflects that. It is a beautiful pushchair that we cannot wait to use every day and proudly take out and about.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

Nothing hits working parents harder than nursery fees. In the UK, childcare costs remain among the highest in the world, often consuming a significant proportion of household income, even with access to funded childcare entitlements. With many nurseries reviewing their fees again this spring, it’s an expensive and stressful time for families trying to balance work and care. Alongside rising headline fees, many parents will also encounter something called consumable charges. These can feel like yet another cost added to an already eye-watering bill. But what exactly are they, and why are they so common?

As a mum of three who has spent thousands on nursery fees, I set out to understand what “consumable charges" really mean. Each month, when my bill lands in my inbox, I brace myself for the cost. Like many full-time working parents, I’ve found that 30 hours of free childcare still leaves a significant gap in cover. It’s hard enough seeing a balance of over £1,000 for just one child, but the additional consumable charges of £20 a week made me stop and think. That’s an extra £1,000 each year — no small change.

I want to be clear that I genuinely love my child’s nursery; they go above and beyond in the care they provide. But the cost of consumables feels like yet another silent parent tax. My son’s nursery charges separately for meals, he no longer needs nappies, and we’re expected to provide our own sun cream in the warmer months. So, it’s enough to make any parent wonder, exactly how many glue sticks, cardboard baubles, or bananas can one four-year-old consume?

To understand consumable charges properly, it’s essential to first understand how childcare funding in England operates.

Why are nursery consumable charges being investigated?

Consumable charges are now attracting government attention, with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson expected to ask the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to examine the hidden costs parents may face when using government-funded childcare.

Eligible working parents of children aged between nine months and four years old in England are entitled to 30 hours a week of funded childcare. But ministers are concerned that, in practice, some families are still facing extra costs to secure or maintain a nursery place, from non-refundable deposits to daily charges for meals, snacks, nappies and sun cream.

For parents, the concern is simple: funded childcare can quickly feel less “free” when additional charges are added to the monthly bill. These costs can also make it harder for families to compare nurseries properly, especially where charges are not clearly explained upfront.

At the same time, nurseries argue that these fees reflect a much bigger problem. Many providers say government funding does not cover the true cost of delivering a place, meaning consumable charges are often used to help bridge the gap. That leaves parents wanting clearer, fairer bills, while providers say they need realistic funding to stay open.

What does funded childcare cover and what it doesn’t?

Government-funded childcare entitlements (including the 30 hours) are designed to cover the core provision of early education and childcare. Crucially, however, this Government funding does not cover the full cost of delivering a nursery place.

Department for Education guidance makes clear that funded hours cover early education and care only. These costs still exist for nurseries, regardless of whether a child is attending funded hours or paid-for hours. In practice, many providers receive less funding per child than it actually costs to deliver a place, meaning settings must find other ways to remain financially viable.

This funding gap is the backdrop against which consumable charges have become more common.

What are consumable charges at nurseries?

A recent update (Feb 2026) in guidance reveals the government explicitly prohibits nurseries from charging certain fees to "top up" the government funding, and they must ensure that any additional costs remain strictly voluntary and never mandatory.

Consumable charges are fees that nurseries may apply to cover items and services used up during the day – things that sit outside the funded entitlement.

These typically include:

• Meals and snacks
• Nappies, wipes, creams and sun cream
• Art and craft materials
• Outings and special events
• Occasional extras such as baking ingredients or party supplies

There is no national rate for consumable charges. What parents pay varies depending on the nursery, location and what is included. Many settings charge between £1 and £5 per day, with some going as high as £10 a day. That adds up fast: for a child in full-time nursery, you could be looking at an extra £250 to £1,200 a year, or even more, on top of your usual nursery fees.

Core nursery fees vs consumables: what’s the difference?

When enrolling your child, you’ll usually encounter two types of charges.

Core nursery fees

These cover the fundamental elements of childcare, including:

• Supervision and care from qualified staff
• Use of the nursery premises and facilities
• Delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum
• Access to play equipment and learning resources

These costs reflect staffing, premises, training and the delivery of early education.
Consumable charges

Consumables relate to items that are used up during the day and are not included within the funded entitlement. Because children’s needs vary, from nappies and wipes to meals and activities, nurseries often separate these costs from their core fees.

Why are consumables charged separately?

For many nurseries, separating consumable charges is a way to manage unavoidable costs without significantly increasing headline fees for everyone.

And this is where the theory stumbles over the reality of the nursery spreadsheet: Many settings still opt for a one-size-fits-all consumables rate, regardless of how much, if anything, your child actually consumes. That leaves parents who diligently provide nappies or whose children turn their noses up at arts and crafts feeling distinctly short-changed.

But for many providers, consumable charges are not an optional extra but a response to rising costs and long-term underfunding. Across the sector, increasing numbers of nurseries report operating at a loss on funded places, and thousands of early years settings have closed in recent years. Without some form of additional contribution, many providers say they would struggle to remain open.

Transparency matters for parents and providers

While consumable charges are legitimate, clear communication is essential. Parents deserve to understand what they are paying for, and providers benefit from open, trust-based relationships with families.

If a nursery charges a consumables fee, it’s reasonable for parents to ask:

• What exactly is included?
• Is the charge a flat rate or usage-based?
• Are there options to provide certain items yourself?
• How are occasional extras or seasonal events handled?

Most nurseries are happy to explain their approach and appreciate early conversations about expectations.

What should parents look out for?

Before accepting a nursery place, it’s worth taking time to understand how consumables are handled.

Ask for a clear breakdown

Vague terms like “additional resources” can be confusing. A written list of what’s included helps everyone stay on the same page.

Clarify opt-outs and flexibility

Under government guidance, parents should be offered the option to supply their own consumables where practical. In reality, the extent of flexibility varies between settings, so it’s best to ask upfront.

Understand flat fees vs usage-based charges

A flat rate may work well for some families, while others prefer to pay only for what their child uses. Neither approach is inherently unfair, but clarity matters.

Check for occasional extras

Events such as Christmas parties, trips or graduation celebrations may be included in consumables or charged separately. Knowing this in advance avoids surprises later.

Compare the full picture

A nursery with higher headline fees may include meals and consumables, while a cheaper option may charge extras separately. Looking at the total cost gives a more accurate comparison when choosing a nursery.

A shared challenge

Rising childcare costs are frustrating for parents, but they are also a reflection of wider pressures on the early years sector. Nurseries, families and policymakers are all operating within a system that many agree is under significant strain.

Understanding how consumable charges fit into that system doesn’t make them easier to pay, but it can help parents make informed choices and have constructive conversations with providers. Trust, transparency and partnership remain essential ingredients in early years care, for everyone involved.

About the author

Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.

If you're looking for ideas for the best days out for toddlers in the UK and Ireland, you've come to the right place. We've got loads of great suggestions from indoor days out to cheap days out and even seasonal days out. From exploring Peppa Pig world to a medieval duel at Warwick Castle, enjoying one of the UK's best water parks, or perhaps a trip to London for a city adventure, there is something to spark the imagination in every child.

Plus, this summer there's the opportunity to explore more with a new initiative introduced by the Government. Announced on the 21 May, the Great British Summer Savings scheme aims to make days out more affordable for families, with VAT temporarily cut. Families across the UK will pay less for children’s meals in restaurants, kid’s tickets to cinemas and theatres, and entry to a wide range of attractions.

The reduced rate will apply to:

• Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises

• Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions

• Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including: amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.

So, wherever your adventures take you this summer it's worth seeing if the Summer Savings scheme applies.

In this article:

We understand it can be hard to find attractions for one-year-olds that will keep them entertained, especially for a whole day so we have included everything from activities such as toddler theatre shows and museums to places where your toddler can run wild outside. Whether they love the ocean and want to explore an aquarium, or you want to catch up with friends with picnic ideas or enjoy the sunshine in a pub garden, or you need something to entertain on a rainy autumnal day, we have it all covered.

Read on for inspiration for days out with toddlers for special occasions, school holidays and during all seasons.

Best days out for toddlers UK: England

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

From epic bird shows to a medieval dining experience and even a Horrible Histories maze - there is lots of fun to be had at Warwick Castle for the whole family! Throughout the year, they host kid-friendly activities and events, including Zog Meet and Greets, interactive trails, and live shows.

LEGOLAND Windsor

LEGOLAND Windsor boasts over 55 rides and attractions, as well as shows and events, and there are plenty of areas suitable for tots, babies and adults - so everyone can join in the fun. 2026 is a great year to visit as LEGOLAND Windsor is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a year-long birthday party.

Cbeebies Land, Alton Towers

CBeebies Land is where your little one’s TV dreams come true. From In the Night Garden to Postman Pat, expect your tots to be star-struck as you make your way around the attractions. CBeebies Land is part of Alton Towers, so there's plenty more to do if you have older kids too, which is great while the little one is having a nap. If you want to turn it into a mini-break, we'd recommend a stay at the CBeebies Hotel, perhaps in the Hey Duggee room, which is new for 2026!

Sundown Adventureland

If you’re looking for a theme park designed especially for younger children, Sundown Adventureland in Rampton, Nottinghamshire, is aimed specifically at kids under 10.

Opened in 1968 and still family-owned, the park has more than 30 rides and attractions tailored to little ones. It’s known for its colourful themed areas such as pirate, Wild West and fairytale zones, along with gentle rides and interactive walk-through attractions like Storybook Village and Toy Town. There are also large soft play options and well priced food and drink.

The park offers free on-site parking too, making it a relaxed, family-friendly option for a day out with younger children.

Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert said: "We took our little boy for his second birthday and honestly couldn’t have picked a better place. Every ride felt just right for his age - nothing too fast or scary - and he absolutely loved the bright colours and themed areas. Seeing his face light up made the whole day so special. It was clean, easy to get around with a pushchair, and there were plenty of spots to sit and have a snack or some lunch. We stayed all day and he slept the whole way home - the perfect birthday treat!"

SEA LIFE Brighton

Whether your tot is up for feeding turtles or even Sharks (if they're brave), Sea Life Brighton is an aquarium like no other! With areas including Day and Night Ocean experience, Rainforest Adventure, Secrets of the Reef and even a glass bottom boat, this is both fun and educational.

Thomas Land, Drayton Manor Park

Calling all Thomas the Tank Engine fans, a day out at Thomas Land will make all your dreams come true! Take a ride down the railway with either Thomas, Rosie or Percy, or take to the sky with James - there's plenty of Thomas and friends themed attractions to explore at Thomas Land. Plus, it's part of the larger Drayton Manor Park, so older children can hit the scarier rides if they dare!

Gulliver's Land, Milton Keynes

Gulliver's Land in Milton Keynes is well worth a visit with your tot! Pop into the Whispering Woods and take the Fairy Trail to turn all your toddler’s worries into wishes. There are also many familiar faces at Gulliver's Land, including Bing, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Elmer. This makes for a really busy, fun-packed day.

The Deep Aquarium, Hull

Make some fishy friends at this award-winning aquarium in Hull, The Deep! Your tot can learn about life under water and see a huge variety of sea life! With a mission to 'create a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, and inspire positive change for ocean survival,' we think this is a great place for both an educational and entertaining day out. Buying a day ticket gets you an annual membership, so you can return as many times as you want.

Willow's Farm, St Albans

Come and play with the much-loved stars of the animated CBeebies series ‘Peter Rabbit’ at Willows Activity Farm, near St. Albans. Visit Peter’s Secret Treehouse, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle’s Kitchen and Lily Bobtail’s Nature Discovery at the first Peter Rabbit themed adventure play area of its kind.

Peppa Pig World, Hampshire

From Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter ride, to Muddy Puddles Water Splash Park, to George’s Spaceship Indoor Playzone - Peppa Pig World has all you need for a family fun day out! Nestled in the New Forest in Hampshire, you and your tot are bound to have a ball in this beautiful setting. Plus Peppa Pig World is part of Paulton's Park theme park, so there is lots to do for big kids too.

Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Gloucestershire

Take your tot to feed an array of ducks, geese and swans at Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, plus visit the flamingos and explore the watery world of Toad Hall. You can also splash about at Welly Boot Land or enjoy the indoor soft play, it’s definitely the perfect day out during the warmer months, or if you wrap up warm, it is fun for winter too.

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, Halifax

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax is a hands-on, interactive museum designed especially for children under 11, with plenty to delight babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Little ones can explore the dedicated Early Years area, created for under‑5s, featuring soft play, sensory zones and gentle water play. Older preschoolers will love role‑playing in the mini town, complete with shops, a bank and even a dentist. Everything is designed to be touched, tested and tried. With lift access, buggy parking and good baby-changing facilities, it’s easy to manage with little ones.

RHS Gardens Family Days (Various locations)

RHS Gardens offer a brilliant family day out for those with babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Across locations including Wisley, Bridgewater, Hyde Hall, Harlow Carr and Rosemoor, you’ll find wide, buggy-friendly paths, open lawns and seasonal family trails. School holiday events often include themed nature hunts, craft sessions and interactive storybook trails that keep little ones engaged. Some gardens also feature natural play areas with climbing structures and water features, and there are baby-changing facilities, cafés and picnic spots on site. With year-round colour and space to explore, it’s an easy, relaxed day outdoors.

Bluebell Railway, Sussex

A visit to the Bluebell Railway in Sussex makes a wonderfully nostalgic family day out. This heritage steam railway runs through beautiful countryside, offering a gentle, unhurried experience that suits toddlers and preschoolers. Children will love watching the steam engines puff into the station before climbing aboard for a scenic ride in traditional carriages. There's also the Bluebell Railway Museum, a playground, and Steamworks! at different stations along the route. Special event days, including family-themed weekends and character visits, add extra excitement throughout the year.

Toddler days out London

If you're looking for fun toddler days out in London, there are plenty of things to do in London with kids, including toddler-friendly interactive experiences, museums, Royal Parks, and playgrounds.

Plus, if you have an animal lover, there are zoos and parks packed full of cute and cuddly critters and even the king of the jungle at London Zoo.

Bubble Planet, London

Looking for a unique experience for the whole family to enjoy during the school holidays? Visit Bubble Planet for a fun-filled day with lots of interactive experiences. Full of different exhibitions including LED room, selfie room, infinity room and even a bubble bath themed room, there is something for everyone, young and old alike. Located in Wembley in London, each visit should take between 60 - 90 minutes.

Battersea Children's Zoo, London

Battersea Children's Zoo is set in Battersea Park and is ideal for toddlers and young children. It's home to 100 animals from around the world, including monkeys, meerkats and tropical birds, and there's also an adventure playground and regular animal experiences, activities and keeper talks to introduce little ones to a fascinating world.

Hyde Park

During the spring and summer months, the Royal Parks offer one of the best and free days out in London for toddlers. Whether it's to find the perfect picnic spot with the kids or you can go boating on the serpentine, it's a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

If they need to burn off some energy, the Diana Memorial Playground is the perfect place to do that. With a giant pirate ship in the middle, teepees and a sensory trail, it's inspired by the stories of Peter Pan and is an ideal spot to let their imaginations run wild. It's also located just next to Kensington Palace, so you're close to lots of things to do and see.

The Toot Bus

If this is one of your toddler's first days out in London, then they might want to see all the sights on a simple hop on, hop off bus trip with Toot Bus. Designed for kids aged 5-11, there's plenty of information for them to soak up on this journey, and you won't have to put up with any complaints of tired legs.

The Children’s Garden at Kew

Open year-round in 2026, Children's Garden at Kew is a magical outdoor space designed for children aged 2–12, and it’s especially lovely for preschoolers. Little ones can splash in gentle water play streams, weave through bamboo tunnels, scramble over climbing mounds and dig happily in the sand pits. There are buggy parks close to the entrance and good baby-changing facilities, making it easy with younger siblings. Seasonal highlights include spring blossom trails, summer family festivals and Christmas at Kew, with sensory-friendly early slots available.

Ireland:

Aillwee Cave, County Clare

Another great option if you are based in Ireland is the Aillwee Burren Experience, which is located in County Clare and offers one of the best views of Galway Bay. It's also one of the oldest caves in Ireland. As well as a tour of the cave, you can sit down and watch flying displays at the Birds of Prey centre, which is home to eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls from all over the world.

Dublin Zoo

If you're based in Dublin, or you're planning a trip to Ireland during the school holidays, then why not head to Dublin Zoo? It promises a fun-filled day out for all ages and is the place to learn more about animals through regular keeper talks. Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest zoos and is home to 400 animals. You can save up to 15% by pre-booking your ticket.

Scotland:

Glasgow Spy Mission Treasure Trail

An ideal safe day outdoors, follow the Glasgow Spy Mission Treasure Trail, solving clues en route as well as taking in the views and exploring the area. Your little ones will love playing detectives, and so will you. Starting at Hillhead Underground Station, you can explore Great George Street, Gibson Street and around some of Glasgow's most iconic buildings.

The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre

If you and your little ones love treetop adventures and scenic trails, the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre in Aberfoyle should be at the top of your list when you're in the area. With something that everyone can enjoy, including wildlife watching, orienteering and Go Ape. If you are looking for something less strenuous, there are a variety of walking trails and even one to a waterfall. As some of the activities are free, this makes for a great, cheap day out with toddlers.

Wales:

Treetop Adventure Golf, Cardiff

Treetop Adventure Golf is perfect for a wet day in Cardiff, and is something for all ages. With a theme of a tropical rainforest, you won't be disappointed. There are different levels for everyone to enjoy, including Tropical Trail and Ancient Explorer.

Folly Farm, Pembrokeshire

Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire has something for everyone. From the zoo with its lions, rhinos, giraffes and penguins to the fairground rides, and indoor and outdoor play areas, there's no chance of getting bored here.

The best theme parks for toddlers

From Chessington World of Adventures, Paulton's Park, Pleasure Island and even Digger Land, there are so many brilliant theme parks for toddlers in the UK! While they may not be able to go on all the rides, there is always something for them to do with lots of toddler friendly areas. Theme parks make a great day out for all the family because there is something to entertain everyone.

Seasonal days out for toddlers

With the ever-changing season and unpredictable weather, sometimes you need to plan days out ahead to ensure you choose something appropriate for winter or summer, or even special occasions. Some great summer days out could include petting zoos and family-friendly festivals. For autumn days out, why not embrace the season and find a pumpkin patch near you? When the weather starts to warm up, wildlife parks are a great choice for spring days out, as well as leisurely snow drop walks. You can also find some great Easter days out in spring with egg hunts to keep the little ones entertained (and topped up with chocolate!) Finally, Christmas days out are perfect in winter and a great way to kickstart the celebrations, so have a look into places such as Lapland UK, festive illuminations and of course, Santa's Grottos. And if you need to get everyone out of the house after Christmas, there are some brilliant Christmas breaks and days out to explore.

The best family-friendly pub gardens

If you're wondering what you can do with your 1-year-old on a sunny day, a pub garden might not be the first thing that springs to mind. But a safe and fun family-friendly pub garden is a great place for your little one to get outside and play while also allowing you to spend time with friends who might not have kids.

The best adventure playgrounds in the UK

There are many fantastic adventure playgrounds across the UK that you and your family can visit, with some offering free entry. They make a refreshing change from visiting the same park every day, and it's a great way to get physically active, plus playgrounds are great for your little one's development.

Days out inspired by children's books

Story time with children can often be a magical, mysterious and exciting experience, but you may be surprised to know that you and your family can visit lots of the places that inspired children’s literary classics, right here in the UK, including Winnie the Pooh, Paddington Bear, The Chronicles of Narnia and Beatrix Potter! You can also visit museums inspired by children's literature, such as The Story Museum in Oxford, where you can step right into the wardrobe to Narnia. The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden, dedicated to Roald Dahl's work and life, has lots of interactive displays for little ones and is perfect for a literary day out.

The best museums in the UK for families

Some of the best museums in the UK are also fantastic for kids. Most are themed with particular interests in mind, such as science or dinosaurs, while others encompass a variety of exhibitions. Plus, for many, small children under a certain age go free. Bonus! If they're into cars (and which toddler isn't!), they'll love the London Transport Museum, while budding Posties will enjoy Sorted! The Postal Play Space.

Best free outdoor activities for kids

You don't have to pay a penny to have a brilliant day out, with so many classic outdoor activities such as hide and seek, cycling, sculptures on the beach, bug hunting and more – there are lots of free things to do with your baby!

Alternatively, you could grab a picnic and let them burn off some energy while getting some fresh air with our pick of the best parks and fun-filled outdoor spaces for the whole family.

How to save money on days out

There's no denying that taking the family out for the day can be pricey. But there are many ways to save on days out for toddlers, including taking picnic lunches, investing in a Merlin Pass, and making your travel cheaper by using a Family & Friends Railcard. If you do travel by train for your day out, you can save even more by taking advantage of some fantastic 2-for-1 deals on entry to attractions such as Battersea Park Children's Zoo, London Transport Museum and LEGOLAND, and a 1/3 off SEA LIFE aquariums. And of course, we all know how much toddlers love trains!

About the author

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics from potty training and nutrition to baby names and early development and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her two young sisters, dog walking and enjoying the outdoors with her family.

Cooking is a basic life skill that we all must learn, and by giving your toddler safe kitchen knives, they can get involved, too. This can, in turn, spark their interest in trying new foods and eating healthier, which is especially good for preventing your children from becoming fussy eaters.

If your toddler is showing an interest in helping in the kitchen, getting them a set of toddler kitchen knives can not only help them feel involved with cooking but also teach them a valuable life skill. By cooking with your toddler, you're also spending quality time together when you'd otherwise be cooking alone.

Toddler kitchen knives are a fantastic tool for enabling your little helper to become involved. So if you've already got a toddler tower for them to help out, now all you need is a set of safe toddler kitchen knives.

Best toddler kitchen knives:

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What are toddler cooking knives?

Toddler cooking knives have been specifically developed to ensure your child's safety. Unlike adult knives, they are not sharp enough to cut little fingers, but can easily glide through soft food. They mimic the style of traditional cutting knives, which helps to make your child feel involved and practise their cutting skills safely.

What are the benefits of teaching a toddler to cook?

By using toddler kitchen knives and other utensils, you are creating a safe cooking environment for your tot. It is the perfect time to explain kitchen hazards in a safe and real-life setting. Learning to cook will teach your child a host of skills, from fine motor skills to time management, counting, and cutting. Studies show that cooking from an early age creates a healthier relationship with food.

How to teach a toddler to cook safely:

• Keep hot food and liquids away from your child

• Use the further rings on a cooker

• Keep the kitchen floor clear to avoid trips

• Allocate them to a clean working environment

• Always supervise your child

• Make sure only an appropriate adult uses hot appliances (for example, an oven)

How we test and choose recommended products

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.

Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.

For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.

About the author

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

NHS midwife and campaigner Leah Hazard says exhausted midwives are being asked to provide life-and-death care while working under unsafe conditions. Now, she is calling for urgent change.

When Leah Hazard read the coroner’s report into the deaths of Jennifer Cahill and her baby daughter Agnes, one detail stopped her in her tracks.

Agnes was born at home in Manchester in July 2024. The inquest into the deaths of mother and baby attracted national attention, but for Leah, an NHS midwife and author, the conversation around the case felt too simplistic.

“There were a lot of thinly veiled accusations of Jennifer herself being irresponsible or reckless, or on the other side, the midwives being incompetent,” she says. “I just kept reading all these articles thinking, surely the truth is a bit more nuanced than that.”

Then she read the coroner’s report for herself.

“One line really stood out to me,” Leah tells Mother&Baby. “The fact that the two midwives attending Jen at home had been awake for more than 24 hours by the time they completed that episode of care.”

Leah is clear that fatigue alone cannot be said to have caused what happened.

“You can’t attribute those deaths directly to the fatigue of the midwives,” she says. “Many other things happened and went wrong. But it can’t not be a factor.”

For Leah, that line crystallised something midwives have been warning about for years: that maternity care is being delivered by staff who are too often exhausted, overstretched and working beyond safe limits.

“I know how that level of fatigue can affect professional judgment, coordination, problem solving, mood, communication, everything,” she says. “I know that my care is compromised after being awake for so long.”

And she saw it not only through the eyes of a midwife, but as a mother.

“My second child was born at home,” she says. “If I had thought a midwife attending me at home had been awake for more than 24 hours by the time she came to see me, I would have been terrified. I would have found that completely unacceptable.”

"I was deluged with stories"

After reading the report, Leah wanted to know whether this was an isolated situation or part of a wider pattern. As a hospital-based midwife, she says she was familiar with long shifts and missed breaks, but she wanted to understand how common extreme on-call working patterns were for community midwives and home birth teams. So she asked midwives on social media.

The response was overwhelming.

“I just put up a question on my stories saying, 'Guys, is this normal?'” she says. “That’s really when I began to be just deluged with these stories from midwives in all kinds of settings in every nation across the UK.”

The accounts, Leah says, described “overwork, exhaustion, fatigue, and the harm that’s come to them and their patients because of those working patterns.”

“I was kind of carrying all these stories around in my head,” she says. “And I knew that something had to change.”

Those stories eventually led Leah to launch a petition calling for legally enforceable fatigue protections for midwives. At the time of our conversation, it had gathered nearly 75,000 signatures.

For Leah, the campaign is not about blaming individual midwives, nor about frightening pregnant women. It is about asking whether the system is allowing maternity staff to provide care safely.

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"The lack of breaks and rest is being normalised"

Midwifery has always been demanding, but Leah says the pressure has intensified significantly since she qualified in 2013.

She wrote her book Hard Pushed, about the realities of modern midwifery, before the pandemic. Even then, she says, the service was already under strain.

“I couldn’t have even imagined that we were about to go into a pandemic, which would amplify things so much more,” she says. “Resources became even more stretched. We were asked to go above and beyond in some really, quite frankly, terrifying situations to keep ourselves and our patients safe.”

Then came burnout, staff leaving, and remaining midwives carrying more of the burden.

“As the pandemic wore on, there was a mass exodus of midwives who were burnt out, leaving those of us who stayed with even more of a workload and even more challenges to shoulder,” Leah says.

She describes the current state of the profession as like “trying to pour into a leaky bucket.”

“On the one hand, we’re trying to recruit students and new graduates into the profession,” she says. “But on the other hand, midwives are leaving at a pretty significant rate because things are so difficult.”

When asked which working patterns are causing the greatest concern, Leah says there is no single issue.

“It’s all dangerous,” she says.

The most obvious example is a midwife working during the day, being called out overnight, then being expected to return again the next morning. But Leah says the problem is not limited to home births or community on-call work.

She works in a hospital triage department, which she compares to A&E for maternity care.

“We constantly have women coming through the door with all kinds of acute and really significant problems and emergencies,” she says. “Maybe you don’t get your first break until three o’clock in the afternoon. The level of cognitive and physical overload that you’ve experienced from half past seven in the morning to three o’clock in the afternoon without a chance to eat, drink, go to the toilet, sit down or clear your head is immense.”

“And of course, errors will be made because we’re human,” she adds. “There’s only so much constant multitasking with a million tabs open in your brain that you can deal with.”

According to Leah, the picture emerging from midwives across the UK is one of “chronic overwork.”

“The lack of breaks and rest is being normalised,” she says.

How on-call maternity care can lead to extreme hours

Many parents will meet community midwives during pregnancy appointments, home visits after birth or while planning a home birth. In some areas, those midwives also provide on-call care outside normal working hours.

Leah explains that a community midwife might work regular daytime clinics and visits, then be first, second or third on call overnight. That could mean being called to attend a home birth, or even being asked to support hospital staffing overnight.

“In some areas, you get that situation where, as soon as you finish work, you’re called out, and you’re out all night,” she says.

Other areas manage rotas differently, giving midwives time to rest before going on call. But Leah says the lack of consistency is part of the problem.

“What’s become really apparent is that there’s no standard operating procedure for provision of this kind of care,” she says.

Leah says she submitted Freedom of Information requests to dozens of trusts to ask how they were complying with working time regulations and managing midwives experiencing exhaustion.

“What became very clear is that there is no standard robust mechanism of audit or accountability across the UK,” she says.

"The failing of the system shouldn’t be our fault"

Legally, workers are entitled to certain minimum rest breaks and rest periods under the Working Time Regulations. But Leah argues that maternity services need a culture where those rules are actively followed, rather than treated as optional when staffing is tight.

She points to industries such as aviation, rail, road transport and even lifeguarding, where fatigue is treated as a formal safety risk.

“If you haven’t had your mandated breaks during or between your shift, you’re simply not allowed to keep working,” she says. “It’s recognised that fatigue is a risk.”

In maternity care, the reality can be different. If a woman is in labour and there is no one else available, Leah says midwives can feel guilted into staying.

“If you leave, there’s nobody else to look after them,” she says. “But that’s not our fault. The failing of the system shouldn’t be our fault. Just because the government hasn’t adequately staffed maternity doesn’t mean that I should have to be awake for 36 hours.”

For Leah, the responsibility should not fall on individual midwives to keep stretching themselves beyond safe limits.

“It shouldn’t be down to the individual in these instances to fix things or to bend the rules,” she says. “But it quite often is.”

Why midwives are scared to speak out

Leah says many midwives are frightened to talk openly about unsafe working conditions, even anonymously.

“It’s really, really risky,” she says.

She points out that midwives are bound by the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s code of conduct, including a duty of candour. In simple terms, she says, if a midwife is aware of a risk to the public, they are duty bound to escalate it.

“I felt like I was sitting with all of this information about a very clear and present and significant risk to the public,” she says. “And I felt a real duty to do something about it in as professional and safe a way as I possibly can.”

But Leah says many midwives who raise concerns, whether through official whistleblowing routes, the press, or social media, can face discipline, punishment or investigation. “People are scared,” she says.

She also believes the current public conversation around maternity care has made it harder for midwives to speak.

“There’s a really prevailing theme in the media at the moment that midwives are the bad guys,” she says. “The harm that’s been perpetrated in maternity has received so much attention, and of course it should receive attention, but the unfortunate consequence of that is that none of the positive stories get shared.”

When midwives try to say they are worried about safety too, Leah says it can be a difficult line to tread.

“We actually are concerned about safety as well,” she says. “We have a voice, and we deserve to be safe at work.”

What pregnant women and families can do

Leah knows this is frightening for pregnant women and families to hear. But she does not believe the answer is to hide the reality.

“Women and birthing people deserve the truth,” she says. “I think they can handle it.”

Her hope is that families will feel motivated to support midwives in asking for a safer system.

“If you’re pregnant now and you’re concerned, speak to your midwife about their working patterns,” she says. “If you are planning a home birth, absolutely talk to them about what their rota is like and what kind of care you can expect to receive.”

She also urges families to sign the petition, write to their MP, MSP or relevant health bodies, and add their voices to the call for change.

“Midwives are on your team,” she says. “But we can’t make change unless you add your voices as well.”

What Leah wants to change

In Leah’s view, there are two possible routes forward.

One option is to properly enforce the Working Time Regulations that already exist, with auditing and penalties when trusts fail to comply.

“It’s not as if regulations don’t exist,” she says. “They are there. They’re just not being followed.”

The second option would be to design more specific fatigue protections for maternity care, learning from other safety-critical sectors.

“That’s going to take not just a big logistical effort, but also a total change of cultural mindset in terms of how we look at nurturing a culture of safety within maternity,” Leah says.

But the core of the issue, she believes, is simple.

“People’s birthing conditions are exactly the same as midwives’ working conditions,” she says. “These two things are inseparable.”

“If you are in the room in labour and I’m looking after you, that’s your birthplace, and it’s also my workplace. How I’m treated at work, how I’m supported and resourced, has everything to do with your birth experience.”

For Leah, maternity safety and midwife wellbeing cannot be separated.

“We’re on the same team,” she says. “We need to support each other.”

You can sign Leah Hazard’s petition here.

About the author

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics surrounding all things motherhood and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips.

A bedside crib is one of the most important purchases for new parents, offering a safe and convenient sleep space for baby during those early months. With so many options available, finding one that feels both practical and reassuring can be a challenge.

The Tutti Bambini CoZee Sense Bedside Crib aims to stand out thanks to its integrated sensory bar, cry sensor technology and quick 30 second assembly. Designed to make night-time soothing simpler, it combines smart features with a stylish, neutral design.

Mum-to-be Chloe has been putting the CoZee Sense together ahead of her baby’s arrival. Here, she shares her first impressions and honest thoughts.

Testing the Tutti Bambini CoZee Sense Bedside Crib

First impressions

A bedside crib is an essential item for a newborn and provides a safe place to sleep from birth to around six months. With so many cribs on the market, choosing one can feel overwhelming. When I saw the new CoZee Sense Bedside Crib by Tutti Bambini, I was immediately drawn to it, particularly because of the integrated sensory bar.

The crib comes in four colours, Sand, Cocoa, Eucalyptus and Kelp, with coordinating wooden finishes. I chose the Eucalyptus colourway as it is a soft, neutral green that works perfectly with our decor.

Build and assembly

The crib arrived neatly packed in a zipped travel bag and felt surprisingly lightweight. One of its standout claims is that it takes just 30 seconds to assemble. Naturally, I was a little sceptical, but I can confirm it really did take around 30 seconds.

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The open-fold mechanism makes assembly incredibly easy. It simply folds out and clicks into place, leaving only the mattress and under-shelf to attach. Within moments, we had a fully assembled crib in front of us.

The crib also comes with wheels. We do not currently need them, but they looked straightforward to attach and remove if required. Strapping the crib securely to the bed was simple too and clicked into place easily. This part took the longest as we had to remove our mattress first, but safety always comes first.

The instructions were clear and easy to follow, although we only needed to glance at them as the design is very intuitive.

The travel bag is really handy to have both for if we want to take the bedside crib on a trip with us or when we want to pack it away.

Features

What really sold us on the crib was the sensory bar, which includes lullabies, soothing sounds and light projections. The sensory bar comes with its own stand, so you do not have to attach it to the crib and can instead place it on your bedside table.

Our favourite feature is the starry night light projection onto the ceiling, which we found very sweet. There is also a built-in temperature display, which helps ease some of the anxieties that come with being first-time parents.

Once our baby moves into her nursery, the sensory bar can go with her thanks to the stand, so you are not restricted to using it solely with the crib.

There is also a built-in cry sensor, which we tested ourselves with some fake cries. The sensor detects sound and automatically reactivates the last selected mode, whether that is white noise, lullabies or lights. It is important to note that this is not a safety or monitoring device. The sensory bar is rechargeable and comes with a USB cable.

The crib itself has six adjustable height settings along with a tilt function, both of which can be changed easily at the click of a button.

The fabric feels very soft and I love the subtle muted pattern, which is not fully shown in the website photos. It also feels breathable, and the double mesh panel allows you to see inside clearly while supporting airflow.

As with most bedside cribs, you use a simple button underneath to drop down one side of the crib for safe co-sleeping and to easily access baby rather than lifting them over the side.

The under-crib storage is impressively deep. I have managed to fit a full nappy caddy underneath with ease, which I was pleasantly surprised by.

There is a built-in rocking function too. I do not think we will use this feature too much as we are hoping the sensory bar will help soothe our baby, but it is quick to switch on using the bars at the bottom.

Final thoughts

The CoZee Sense is honestly our favourite item for our newborn so far. We are seriously impressed with it and cannot wait for our baby to, hopefully, sleep soundly in it.

The sensory bar is a real standout feature and something we expect to get plenty of use from, even beyond the bedside crib stage. Although it is on the pricier side compared to some bedside cribs, it's much cheaper than the likes of the Snoo Smart Sleeper and we feel it is worth the investment thanks to its stylish design, ease of assembly and innovative features designed to make those early months feel a little calmer.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

When you have babies or young children, where you live can make a real difference to everyday life.

It is not just about schools. In the early years, the things that often matter most are more immediate: how much childcare costs, whether there are parks or green spaces nearby, how easy it is to find things to do at weekends, and whether family routines feel manageable day to day.

To explore this, Outdoortoys analysed some of the key factors that shape family life across England, including green space, childcare costs, school performance, child-friendly attractions, rainfall and temperature. Each area was then given an overall child raisability score out of 10.

The results show that there is no single perfect place to bring up children. Instead, the areas that rank highest are those that offer the best balance across the things families with young kids tend to rely on most.

Sheffield comes out on top

Sheffield ranks first overall, with a child raisability score of 7.32 out of 10.

One of its biggest strengths is access to outdoor space. The city offers 1,686 square metres of green space per person, which is almost double the study average. For families with young children, that can mean more options for everyday walks, park trips, fresh air, and simple outdoor play without needing to travel far.

Childcare costs are also comparatively manageable, with preschool or nursery fees averaging £918.33 per month. While still a significant monthly cost, this is below the study average and may make planning around work, childcare, and household spending a little easier.

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The top 10 areas for raising young children

Across the highest-ranking areas, the common theme is balance. These places may not lead in every category, but they perform strongly across several areas that matter during the early years.

The top 10 areas are:

1 - Sheffield
2 - Milton Keynes
3 - Swindon
4 - Cambridge
5 - Peterborough
6 - Oxford
7 - Warrington
8 - Sunderland
9 - Stoke-on-Trent
10 - Portsmouth

Milton Keynes ranks second, helped by strong access to green space and a high number of child-friendly attractions. If you have young kids, that can make weekends, nursery days off, and school holidays easier to manage, with more nearby options for days out.

Swindon ranks third, with childcare costs averaging £900 per month. This places it well below the study average and makes it one of the more affordable higher-ranking areas for early-years childcare.

Cambridge also performs strongly, offering the highest number of child-friendly attractions in the study, with 46 per 100,000 people. However, childcare costs are among the highest, averaging £1,930.57 per month, showing the trade-offs many families face.

England’s most challenging places to raise a child

At the other end of the ranking, the most challenging areas tend to be those where several pressures overlap. Higher childcare costs, lower school ratings, fewer child-friendly attractions, or less access to green space can all make everyday family life feel more stretched.

The 10 most challenging areas are:

1 - Manchester
2 - Bradford
3 - Bristol
4 - Wolverhampton
5 - Birmingham
6 - Liverpool
7 - Blackpool
8 - Slough
9 - Brighton and Hove
10 - Bolton

Manchester ranks as the most challenging area overall, with a child raisability score of 3.39 out of 10. While it does offer a reasonable amount of green space and childcare costs close to the study average, it ranks lower when the full range of family-focused factors are considered together.

Bradford ranks second from bottom. Its childcare costs are the lowest in the study, averaging £605.84 per month, which could make a significant difference to household budgets. However, this is balanced against weaker performance in other areas.

Bristol ranks third from bottom, largely due to a combination of high childcare costs and lower school ratings. Childcare costs average £1,749.80 per month, while 53.9% of schools are rated outstanding or good.

Childcare costs vary hugely depending on where you live

For families with babies, toddlers, or preschool-aged children, childcare is often one of the biggest monthly expenses.

The study found a major difference between the most and least expensive areas. Plymouth has the highest childcare costs, at £2,000 per month, while Bradford has the lowest, at £605.84 per month.

That is a gap of just under £1,400 every month, or more than £16,700 across a year.

For families with young kids, that difference can affect everything from working hours and household budgets to savings, days out, and wider lifestyle choices.

Outdoor space can make daily life easier with young children

Access to green space matters at every age, but it can be especially valuable in the early years.

For babies, outdoor space gives families somewhere to walk, get fresh air, and break up long days at home. For toddlers and preschoolers, it provides room to run, climb, explore, and build confidence.

Birmingham has the most green space in the study, with 3,262 square metres per person. London has the least, with just 19 square metres per person.

However, green space alone does not determine how easy an area is for family life. Birmingham, for example, performs strongly for outdoor space but still appears among the most challenging areas overall once the full range of factors is considered.

Child-friendly attractions can make weekends feel easier

Having things to do nearby can make a big difference when you have young children.

Cambridge has the highest number of child-friendly attractions in the study, with 46 per 100,000 people. Slough has the fewest, with 4 per 100,000 people.

This kind of access can shape everyday family life more than it might first appear. More local options can make it easier to fill a rainy afternoon, plan a low-effort weekend, or find activities that suit different ages as children grow.

Where options are more limited, families may need to travel further, spend more, or plan further in advance to create the same variety.

Schools still matter, even in the early years

Even if school feels a long way off, education is often part of the picture when families are deciding where to settle.

Warrington has the highest proportion of schools rated outstanding or good, at 81%. Bristol has the lowest, at 53.9%.

For families with babies and young children, school quality can influence longer-term decisions such as where to rent or buy, when to move, and which catchment areas to consider before children reach reception age.

About the author

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics surrounding all things motherhood and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips.

Choosing a baby name often starts with excitement, until the reality sets in: this is the name your child will carry for life. As a mother of three, I know just how overwhelming the search for the perfect baby name can become, especially once family and friends begin offering their opinions and well-meaning “suggestions.” There’s no single right way on how to choose a baby name, but there are a few important things worth thinking through before you make your final decision.

Some parents know instantly what feels right, while others find themselves endlessly scrolling through lists and second-guessing every option. Whether you’re drawn to classic baby names, modern choices, or something truly unique, the goal is always the same: to find a name that feels right today, tomorrow, and years into the future.

This guide will help you narrow things down by focusing on the key considerations that matter most, so you can move from overwhelm to clarity and choose a baby name you truly love. From unique baby boy namesand unusual baby girl names to timeless traditional picks that still stand out on the playground, the best baby names are the ones that grow beautifully with your child.

Start with the style you love

Before you get lost in endless lists of baby names, the first step is to figure out the style that actually feels right to you. Every name has a “vibe”, whether it’s classic and timeless, modern and trendy, soft and nature-inspired, or short and bold. Defining your style early helps you instantly filter out thousands of names and focus on the ones that match your taste.

For example, if you’re drawn to elegance and tradition, you might explore vintage names that have stood the test of time. If you prefer something fresh and current, modern names could be a better fit. Parents who love calm, earthy inspiration often gravitate toward nature names, while those who want something simple and punchy may prefer short baby names.

Once you identify your style, choosing a name becomes far less overwhelming; you’re no longer picking from thousands, but from a curated set that already fits the world you want to create for your child.

Think about meaning and origin

A name is more than just something you call your child; it carries a story. Taking time to explore the meaning and origin behind a name can make your choice feel even more special and intentional.

Many parents love choosing a name that reflects their values, heritage, or hopes for their child. Maybe you’re drawn to a name that means “strength,” “light,” or “peace.” Or perhaps you want to honour your cultural roots with a name that connects your baby to generations before them.

It’s also helpful to learn how a name is traditionally used. Consider whether it is tied to a particular culture, language, or religion, and whether it carries historical or literary associations. Understanding this background can help you decide if the name truly resonates with your family and whether you feel comfortable and connected to its heritage.

Say the full name out loud

Before you fall completely in love with a name, say the full name out loud: first, middle, and last. This is one of the simplest and most powerful tests you can do. How does it flow? Does it feel smooth and natural, or a little clunky? Pay attention to rhythm and repetition. For example, a long first name may pair beautifully with a short middle name, while certain sounds back‑to‑back might feel harder to say.

Write down the initials and look carefully at how they appear together. Make sure they don’t spell anything unintentionally or create an awkward abbreviation. While this may not be a dealbreaker, it’s a simple step that can help you avoid an unfortunate combination later.

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Avoid trend regret

Trends move fast, but your baby’s name will last a lifetime. It’s easy to fall in love with a name that’s blowing up on TikTok or suddenly everywhere in your feed. But popularity spikes can fade just as quickly as they rise. A name that feels fresh today might feel very tied to a specific year or moment later on.

That doesn’t mean you should avoid popular names altogether, just think about whether the name will age well. Choosing a name you genuinely love, not just one that’s trending, helps ensure it still feels right long after the trend has passed.

Consider future life stages

A name doesn’t belong only to a baby, it belongs to a person who will grow up. It’s worth thinking about how it might feel at different ages and in different contexts.

In childhood, consider how your child might experience their name among peers. Will they feel comfortable saying it out loud? Does it reflect something meaningful about their family or background? The goal isn’t conformity, but confidence - a name your child can carry without feeling diminished by it.

As they move into adulthood, their name will appear in formal and informal spaces alike. While it’s true that people can make assumptions based on names, those biases aren’t a reason to avoid cultural or distinctive choices. Instead, think about whether the name feels like something your child could grow into - flexible enough to suit different paths, personalities, and ambitions.

And of course, adulthood matters just as much. A name that feels sweet for a newborn should also feel natural and grounded at 30, 50, or 80.

Make sure both parents love it

Choosing a baby name is one of the first big decisions you’ll make together, and it should feel 'right' for both of you.

Many couples use a simple veto rule: if one parent truly dislikes a name, it’s off the list. No convincing, no pressure. That mutual respect keeps the process positive.

We have found that the shortlist method is helpful. Each parent creates a list of favourites, then you look for overlaps or names with a similar style and feel. This naturally leads you toward names that reflect your shared taste.

At the end of the day, the right name should feel like a win for both of you, a choice that represents your partnership and the family you’re building together.

Test the nicknames

Before you commit to a name, look at the most obvious shortened versions. Friends, siblings, teachers, and teammates will naturally adapt longer names, and your child may eventually choose a nickname themselves.

Make sure you genuinely like the common options, not just the full formal name. If you adore “Alexander” but dislike “Alex,” that’s worth considering. The same goes for playful variations that could pop up over time.

Check popularity rankings

Some parents love choosing a top‑10 favourite. Others prefer something less common. Either way, knowing where a name stands can help you make an informed decision.

Popularity spikes can happen quickly, especially with social media influence and celebrity baby names. A name that feels unique may actually be climbing the charts faster than expected. On the other hand, a classic name may rank steadily year after year, which often signals lasting appeal.

Checking rankings doesn’t mean you have to change your choice; it simply gives you context. Whether you want a name that’s widely loved or quietly distinctive, it’s helpful to know the landscape before you decide.

Don’t forget sibling name flow

They don’t need to match perfectly, but they should feel like they belong in the same family. A similar style, rhythm, or tone is often enough to create a natural sense of flow without everything sounding too “themed.”

Trust your gut

After the lists, the rankings, the opinions, and the endless scrolling, pause and listen to yourself. Sometimes the right name simply feels right. It brings a sense of calm, excitement, or certainty you can’t fully explain. That instinct matters.

You can gather advice and consider every angle, but in the end, this is your child and your choice. When a name keeps coming back to your heart and feels natural when you say it, that’s often your answer.

About the author

Hannah Carroll is our Senior Digital Writer. In her capacity, she curates top-notch listicles, crafts insightful how-to guides, and delivers expert product reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah draws upon her comprehensive understanding of all facets of family life to bring true insight into all the products that make running a home easier.

Across the UK, maternity services rely on midwives providing continuous, skilled and often high-pressure care in situations that can change within seconds. But a growing campaign is warning that some midwives are being asked to do that work while exhausted, hungry, dehydrated and dangerously sleep deprived.

A campaign led by NHS midwife, author and healthcare advocate Leah Hazard is calling for stronger, legally enforceable fatigue protections for midwives. The campaign argues that while midwives are covered by the UK Working Time Regulations, the reality on the ground can be very different.

The campaign’s associated petition on Change.org has gathered significant public support, with more than 74,000 signatures at the time of writing.

In an evidence document submitted to the National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation in March 2026, Leah collected anonymous accounts from NHS midwives across the UK. The stories were gathered between November 2025 and March 2026, with contributors consenting for them to be shared anonymously.

They describe midwives working 24-hour shifts, being called out overnight after full clinic days, driving home after extreme sleep deprivation, missing meals and toilet breaks, and in some cases making or witnessing mistakes while exhausted.

One midwife wrote: “I finished a 24-hour shift yesterday at 6am. 9am-5pm clinic then on call at a community birth and transfer into hospital 8pm-6am… what can we do?”

Another described working with only “Four hours sleep in 48 hours” after being called out for preterm labour, completing a 100-mile ambulance transfer, sleeping briefly, then attending clinic and another transfer involving an antepartum haemorrhage.

For Leah and other campaigners, these accounts raise a central safety question: if other safety-critical workers are protected from fatigue because tiredness affects judgment, why are midwives so often expected to carry on?

"I honestly wasn’t safe to be there"

Many of the most concerning accounts relate to community midwives and home birth on-call rotas.

In some services, midwives describe working a full day in clinic or carrying out postnatal visits, then remaining on call overnight. If they are called out to a home birth or asked to cover short-staffed hospital units, they may work through the night and still be expected back at work the next day.

One anonymous midwife said they had worked all day at a birth, returned to hospital around 5pm, was told to eat because they would be called back in for escalation, and was then sent to labour suite that evening. By midnight, they say they told the coordinator they needed to be relieved.

“At midnight I told the coordinator I needed to be relieved soon as it was getting really unsafe,” they wrote. “By 2am I was struggling to even function. I kept getting told there was nobody to relieve me.”

They said they documented that they had escalated their concerns several times because they “honestly wasn’t safe to be there after working for nearly 24 hours solid.”

At 6am, they were eventually allowed to leave and had to be sent home in a taxi because they were “unfit to even drive.”

Working Time Regulations: what the law says

The Working Time Regulations set minimum legal protections around working hours and rest. In general, workers should not work more than an average of 48 hours per week unless they have voluntarily agreed, in writing, to opt out of that limit. Workers cannot be dismissed or treated unfairly for refusing to opt out.

Workers are also generally entitled to a rest break of at least 20 minutes where their working day is more than six hours, and 11 hours’ rest between working days. However, some roles involving shift work, continuity of service or round-the-clock staffing can be subject to different working-time arrangements. Where standard rest cannot be taken in the usual way, workers may instead be entitled to equivalent compensatory rest.

The concern raised by Leah Hazard’s campaign is therefore not simply that legal protections do not exist. It is that, in parts of maternity care, the practical pressures of staffing, on-call cover, home birth services and emergency escalation may mean that rest protections, or equivalent safeguards, are not always being consistently delivered in practice.

One midwife wrote that if they chose not to work the day after being called out overnight because they felt too tired, they would “owe” the trust eight hours, despite already having worked a clinic day and then through the night.

Another said: “If we attend a home birth and are then too tired to start at the proposed time the following day, management get quite cross.”

"I fell asleep and crashed my car"

Some of the most alarming accounts involve midwives driving after prolonged periods without sleep.

One midwife described working a full community day before being called into labour ward for a full night. By the time they got into their car to drive home, they said they had been awake for 30 hours.

“I fell asleep and crashed my car,” they wrote. “Thankfully, I escaped with just whiplash. But needed physio for months afterwards.”

Another account described a colleague falling asleep at the wheel and breaking both legs after working a full community day and then being called in to support night staff on the postnatal ward.

A third midwife said they had slept in a lay-by for a couple of hours on the way home because they felt too unsafe to continue driving after a long shift and on-call work.

These accounts matter because fatigue is not only a risk during clinical care, it can also become a risk before and after a shift, especially for midwives covering large rural areas, travelling between homes, birth centres, hospitals and their own homes.

One rural community midwife wrote that some colleagues travel more than two-and-a-half hours to reach an address, meaning fatigue can be compounded by long, late-night journeys.

Why fatigue matters in maternity care

Fatigue affects concentration, reaction time, communication, decision-making and the ability to process information under pressure. In maternity care, those functions are central to safe practice.

Midwives monitor labour, assess maternal and fetal wellbeing, identify complications, escalate emergencies, administer medication, support feeding, document care and communicate with families at some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

One anonymous account described a midwife being called to a high-risk home birth after working 8am-6pm. The baby was born at 5am, followed by a major obstetric haemorrhage.

The midwife wrote that they had to perform maternal resuscitation “after no sleep” and with a newly qualified colleague who had never provided intrapartum care. They said they had raised safety concerns but was told community midwives had “always worked this way.”

Another account described a catastrophic postpartum haemorrhage after a midwife had worked 8am-5pm in community, then remained on call overnight. They said that just before the emergency, they and their colleague felt so tired that “neither of us knew how to even start postnatal care.”

They wrote: “The anxiety of knowing I’m going to be working whilst so tired makes me physically ill. Something has to change.”

"I made a drug error that day out of complete exhaustion"

The accounts also include examples where midwives link fatigue to mistakes or near-misses.

One midwife said that when she was 30 weeks pregnant, she worked a full clinic day, was called into the unit for escalation, worked until 4am, slept in a labour room until her next day shift started at 8am, then worked another day.

“I made a drug error that day out of complete exhaustion,” she wrote.

Another anonymous contributor alleged that a colleague was so tired they misinterpreted a CTG, which led to the baby requiring cooling treatment.

These are anonymous accounts and should not be treated as independently investigated clinical findings. However, they show why campaigners argue fatigue should be treated as a safety risk in its own right, not simply as an unavoidable inconvenience of NHS working life.

One midwife summed it up starkly: “There is no way you can make safe, rational decisions with no sleep and no support on hand to tag you out for a coffee or a nap.”

Midwives missing food, water and toilet breaks

The campaign is not only about extreme overnight shifts. It is also about routine working conditions during standard hospital and community shifts.

Several midwives describe 12-hour shifts with no proper breaks, no time to eat, and little or no chance to use the toilet.

One wrote: “I have worked shifts where I was unable to go to the toilet for 10 hours.”

Another said: “I frequently don’t even bother bringing food for my breaks as I just never end up eating it.”

One particularly distressing account came from a midwife who said they had been too busy to go to the toilet for eight hours of a 12-hour shift.

“I didn’t realise I had soiled my underwear,” she wrote. “This is something I thought I would never experience in my adult life and it broke me.”

Another midwife described recurrent urinary problems after not being able to empty her bladder or drink water during long shifts. She said this eventually led to hospital treatment, bladder surgery and self-catheterisation.

These accounts illustrate a wider concern: that some midwives are being asked to care for women and babies while their own basic physical needs are not being met.

Pregnant midwives working while exhausted

Some of the most shocking stories involve midwives who were pregnant themselves.

One midwife said she was 31 weeks pregnant when she attended a home birth after a full working week, then was sent to a birth unit at 5pm because it was understaffed. She said she worked on an antenatal ward until 11pm, was then sent to a home birth, and stayed there until 10am the next day.

“In total I was awake 28 hours in my third trimester of pregnancy to deliver a high risk homebirth,” she wrote.

Another said she was 29 weeks pregnant on a night shift, looked after a woman on a midwifery-led unit all night, then transferred to theatre postnatally. She said she passed out because she had not eaten or had a break all night, and was then asked when she would be ready to finish her notes.

A midwifery support worker also described working a night shift with a pregnant midwife who was 32 weeks pregnant and looked after three labouring women through the night without a break.

“She completely broke down in the paperwork cupboard at 06:45,” the account said.

RCM concerns: exhausted, overstretched and burnt out

The Royal College of Midwives has repeatedly raised concerns about staffing pressure, burnout and unpaid overtime in maternity services.

In December 2025, the RCM said its survey evidence showed 45% of midwives report burnout often or always, only 16% feel there are enough staff to do their job properly, midwives work an estimated 100,000 unpaid hours every week, and 87% say their units are not safely staffed.

These figures do not prove that fatigue directly causes individual clinical outcomes. But they do support the wider picture described in Leah’s evidence document: a workforce under sustained pressure, with many staff saying they are too tired to work safely.

The RCM has also said: “You cannot deliver safe maternity care with exhausted and overstretched staff. Well-rested midwives who have manageable workloads provide better, safer care.”

How maternity compares with other safety-critical jobs

The campaign draws comparisons with other safety-critical sectors, including aviation, rail, road transport and air traffic control.

The point is not that maternity care is identical to flying a plane or driving an HGV. It is that other high-risk industries often have stricter, more visible fatigue-management systems.

One midwife in Leah’s evidence document, who had previously worked as cabin crew, said she was shocked by the “lack of concern for risk of fatigue amongst midwives and its impact upon decision making.”

She wrote that as cabin crew, staff could report themselves as fatigued if their rota did not allow adequate rest, and it would not be held against them because their decisions could affect the safety of others.

Another midwife wrote: “You wouldn’t expect a pilot to do this when in charge of flying people safely. Why do we expect midwives to be any safer when providing complex, sometimes life-saving care?”

A further account compared midwifery with delivery driving: “I cannot and will never understand how my husband, a delivery driver, cannot drive his van if he hasn’t had a break, yet I can have 2-3 lives in my hands and be unable to have a break.”

The pressure to keep going

A recurring theme in the anonymous accounts is guilt.

Midwives describe feeling unable to stop because a woman is in labour, a home birth service may have to close, a clinic may be cancelled, or no one else is available to take over.

One midwife wrote that when staff reach their safe working limit during a home birth, the apparent options can feel impossible: leave the woman without care, transfer her into hospital against her wishes, or stay and provide care while exhausted.

Another wrote: “Where is the duty of care to us?”

This is a central point of the campaign. Leah and other supporters argue that fatigue safety should not depend on individual midwives having the confidence to refuse unsafe work. They argue it should be built into the system, with clear limits, clear escalation routes and enough staff to allow tired midwives to stop.

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What the campaign is calling for

Leah Hazard’s campaign is calling for legally enforceable, role-specific limits on midwives’ working hours, along with stronger guarantees around rest and fatigue management.

Supporters argue that this would:

• Reduce avoidable fatigue risk
• Make maternity care safer for women, babies and staff
• Bring midwifery closer to other safety-critical sectors
• Improve retention by reducing burnout
• Make it harder for unsafe working patterns to become normalised

The campaign is not about questioning midwives’ dedication. The accounts in Leah’s evidence document show the opposite: midwives staying late, working through exhaustion, missing meals, driving long distances and carrying emotional responsibility because they do not want women and babies to be left without care.

But dedication cannot be a safety system. If midwives are being asked to make life-changing clinical decisions after 24, 28 or 30 hours awake, the question is no longer whether individual staff are resilient enough. It is whether the system is safe enough.

For pregnant women and families, these accounts may be frightening to read. But campaigners argue that transparency is necessary. Safer working conditions for midwives are not separate from safer births for women and babies. They are part of the same issue.

You can sign the petition here.

About the author

Lorna White is the Products Editor for Mother&Baby. After running the Yours magazine website, specialising in content about caring for kids and grandchildren, Lorna brought her expertise to Mother&Baby in 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics surrounding all things motherhood and has a wide range of experienced medical experts and professionals at her fingertips.

Charlotte Crosby has never been afraid to say exactly what she thinks - and motherhood is no different.

The former Geordie Shore star and TV presenter is now mum to two daughters, Alba and Pixi, whom she shares with fiancé Jake Ankers.

From navigating both an ectopic pregnancy and a silent miscarriage to making firm decisions about how she wanted to give birth, Charlotte has been open about the highs, fears and unexpected emotions that come with becoming a parent.

Becoming a mum marked a new chapter in her life - one she’s documented in her own words and continues to speak about candidly as her family grows.

Charlotte Crosby and Jake Ankers

Charlotte has been with businessman Jake Ankers since late 2021, after they were introduced through mutual friends. What began as a low‑key relationship quickly became serious, with Charlotte later describing it as the first time she felt completely certain about her future.

Their relationship moved quickly. At the time of deciding to try for a baby, Charlotte and Jake had been together for just three and a half months.

"It was so exciting," she remembers. "There was a weird adrenaline thrill. The fact that this isn't really how it goes, but we're just gonna do it."

"When you know, you know and I did know. And I know a lot of people say that and it doesn't always work out that way, but I genuinely know that me and Jake will be together for the rest of our lives. We're like two little best friends. We are inseparable."

Their daughter, Alba Jean, was born in October 2022. Just over two years later, in January 2025, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Pixi Cecilia, making them a family of four.

Jake proposed in November 2023 during a romantic getaway, cementing their whirlwind but unwavering love story. Although they initially planned to marry sooner, the couple have since decided to postpone their wedding until 2027 so they can focus on their young family.

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Charlotte Crosby’s pregnancies and births

"I was always nervous about how difficult it would be getting pregnant again," Charlotte admits, having had an ectopic pregnancy in 2016.

"I almost died. I was just going about my day and the next minute I woke up in the hospital and I'd lost one side of my reproductive organs. And I don't know whether I'm even able to even describe it. I feel like you have to go through that to understand how that makes you feel afterwards. That feeling of being completely out of control, you aren't in control of anything anymore."

The devastating experience naturally had an impact on Charlotte's pregnancy with Alba.

"I was dead set that I was having a C-section because I did not want to go into a situation where something could go wrong. I wanted to choose an option where I had more control. And that was, for me, what felt like a safer environment."

"For a while, I was thinking, 'Do I just try a natural birth?' But the only reason I felt like that is that so many people seem to not frown upon a natural birth. But then it was like, 'Why? Why would I do that for other people? And not myself?' I would only be doing it because of what other people thought. And I think that's so sad," Charlotte says.

"When it comes to C-sections, people actually feel afraid to speak about it. It's a woman's choice how to deliver her baby. And there is absolutely no way that anyone should be passing judgment on that."

Charlotte's birth with Alba went exactly as she had hoped. "It was magical," she beams. "Like it was absolutely amazing. I absolutely loved it."

The recovery, however, was trickier than she had anticipated.

"Any recovery is hard and I wasn't in pain as such. It was the fact that I knew I was limited in the things that I could do. And that was hard. I wanted to be able to bounce off my feet and run to the cupboard, get all of the nappies and help Jake out, but I couldn't. I wasn't that mobile. It did take about six weeks before I felt like I could even just get out of bed fast without worrying."

Charlotte later welcomed her second daughter, Pixi, also via C-section.

Charlotte shares heartbreak after silent miscarriage

Charlotte recently shared she had suffered a silent miscarriage after falling pregnant with her third child earlier this year. She discovered she was expecting in early March 2026. However, at an eight-week scan, she was told the pregnancy was not developing and confirmed the loss.

Speaking candidly about the experience on her Instagram, Charlotte explained that a silent miscarriage is when the body does not immediately recognise the loss, describing the uncertainty and waiting period as especially distressing.

She shared that she and fiancé Jake had already begun imagining life as a family of five, which made the heartbreak even more profound, and said she chose to speak out in the hope of helping other women feel less alone in their grief.

Speaking on ITV's This Morning about her experience, Charlotte said: "I would love to try again for another baby. After finding out I was pregnant, I'd got really excited and I think it is something that I definitely like."

Charlotte Crosby’s books

By the age of 32, Charlotte had already released three autobiographies, but she always knew the final one would be different.

“I always had this one planned,” she told Mother&Baby. "When I did my first ever autobiography, I set out three title names in my head for three books. And the last one was always going to be when I had a baby. I had to do this one to complete the collection."

Her third book, Me, Myself and Mini Me, focuses on her journey through pregnancy, birth and early motherhood with her first daughter, Alba.

The book is full of Charlotte's trademark warmth, wit and honesty, covering everything from dry vaginas to poonamis. "I don't really know how to just be anything different, it's not like I'm trying to be honest, I'm just being me," she says.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.

With rear-facing widely known to be the safest way for children to travel in a car seat, we were excited to try out the Silver Cross Perform. The Perform is the brand's first dedicated extended rear-facing car seat, and has passed the rigorous Swedish Plus Test.

Designed to keep children completely rear-facing from birth to roughly 7 years old (up to 21.5kg or 125cm), the Perform has passed one of the most thorough collision tests in the world.

As a first-time parent car safety is now a lot higher on my radar, and having a car seat which can rear-face up to 7 years old is very reassuring. I tested the Perform car seat with my one-year-old son to see if it lived up to expectations.

Testing the Silver Cross Perform

Build

My first impression of the Perform was that it was pretty bulky, but taking into account the ISOFIX base and rebound bar this is to be expected. It arrives in an L-shaped box perfectly fitted to the car seat, so additional packaging was minimal which I appreciated as boxes do start to add up quickly when you have a child!

I was impressed with the high quality materials, the padding feels lovely and soft and the whole design seemed solid. It is currently only available in Iconic Black, which I would have probably chosen over another colour anyway. The newborn insert was easy to remove, there are poppers so it just comes right out and can be reattached if needed.

However, I did find the instruction label a bit sparse. It has a diagram of when to remove which sections, depending on your child’s height but personally, I didn’t find it very easy to follow. I also found the initial installation guide on the label a bit confusing (again just limited diagrams), but once I went online and read the full product manual I found it clearer.

Upon my first installation of the Perform I was pleased to find that the ISOFIX connectors slid out very easily, but they do move independently from each other, so it can be tricky to marry them up when leaning through a car door. Also, finding the correct position for the rebound bar meant that the first time I installed it, the car seat didn’t feel completely secure, despite the ISOFIX and support leg showing green indicators. Once I had figured out how to pull out the rebound bar to best fit the car, it felt a lot more solid.

When it arrived, I was slightly apprehensive as to how well it would fit in the car due to its size, but once it’s all locked in it takes up no more space than my existing car seat, which has a separate ISOFIX base with load leg. There’s still plenty of leg room for the front passenger, and it doesn’t eat into the middle seat either.

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Usability

From a usability point of view, not having rotation was an initial concern as it’s what I’m used to with my current car seat, but I didn’t find it too much of an issue when getting my son in and out. Perhaps with a younger child it would make it more difficult. The 5-point harness is easy to clip into place, it has been designed to not get lost underneath your child, which is a great feature for a car seat that is locked in place – they have obviously considered this in the design. However, tightening up the straps without being able to see the child face-on did make it a bit trickier to check if it’s secure – I find this easier to do with the car seat facing me. As with the rest of the car seat the padding on the straps of the harness is thoughtfully placed for comfort, and feels of premium quality.

It’s very easy to recline the car seat, and there’s a clear guide on the side of the car seat recommending which position to recline to, depending on your child’s height. My son is only one so he has plenty of leg room for now, but you can see how the recline can help with giving a bit more legroom, as well as the adjustable rebound bar.

With regards to cleaning this car seat, the Perform comes with a Hydro Protect removable, leak-proof, reversible liner, which sounds brilliant. It’s not a feature we’ve had to use yet but the outer material itself has proven easy to wipe down or brush off crumbs, and it still looks relatively new despite a month of use, which is pretty impressive with a toddler.

Performance

My son looks extremely comfortable in this car seat, indeed the first time he went in it he almost immediately fell asleep. We’ve used it for longer and shorter journeys, and even on 2 hour long car rides my son hasn’t shown any signs of discomfort, he seems perfectly happy!

We’ve mainly used this car seat in my husband’s car, he picks up my son from nursery most afternoons so it normally gets used at least once a day. We also tend to use my husband’s car at the weekends so not having to move over one car seat between two cars has been a real bonus.

Now that we have the rebound bar in the correct position and I’ve got used to the installation technique, it is relatively easy to remove if needed. However, it tends to stay put as it is quite bulky, and after all it’s not designed to be an easy in-and-out car seat, it’s more focused on safety.

Final verdict

Despite some difficulties with the initial installation of this car seat, once we’d got to grips with the rebound bar and how to adjust it, this is a great car seat if you’re looking for extended rear-facing. For the price, taking into account that it is Swedish Plus Tested and the longevity of the product (newborn to 7 years) I think this is good value considering other similar products on the market, especially as it comes with the style and high-quality materials that Silver Cross is renowned for.

If some sort of rotation could be included in the design I think this would be hugely beneficial for ease of use for parents, particularly when trying to strap in younger babies. Perhaps there could also be a way to make the rebound bar a bit easier to adjust during installation, rather than having to take the whole thing out and do a bit of trial and error until the fit looks right. Currently there is a strap you have to pull to release/adjust it but you have to twist the car seat to access it, as shown in the image above.

On the whole, yes I would have no hesitation recommending this car seat, however I would advise to read the full product manual, or watch some installation demo videos, to assist with correct installation. With regards to what we wanted it for – a safe and reliable car seat – it certainly delivers. I find the fact that it is Swedish Plus Tested a huge bonus, as well as the longevity of the car seat.

About the author

Stephanie Spencer is the Digital Editor at Mother&Baby and has recently welcomed her first baby. With over a decade of experience in digital publishing, she's passionate about ensuring parents receive trusted advice when they need it most. She has a particular interest in health, both physical and mental, and loves discovering products that make parent’s lives easier.