A L I C E & T H E M U M S
ISSUE 15 APRIL 2021
ALLERGIES & FEEDING ISSUES 7 STORIES FOCUSED ON A VARIETY OF ISSUES RELATED TO FEEDING
SMALL BUSINESS REVIEWS Etsy business reviews from our editor!
JOURNAL PROMPTS Some prompts for journalling for busy mums
SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN Looking deeper at mental health and school readiness
C O N T E N T S 4 Editor's Note 6 School Readiness 8 School Pressures 10 The Sweet Life of Kay: Will Covid Change The World For The Better? 12 Huntington's Disease 15 Allergies & Feeding Issues: Breastfeeding An Older Child 17 Allergies & Feeding Issues: Breastfeeding Trauma 20 Allergies & Feeding Issues: My Children & Their Allergies 22 Allergies & Feeding Issues: CMPA Diagnosis 24 Allergies & Feeding Issues: My Experiences With Allergies & Feeding 26 Allergies & Feeding Issues: Don't Jinx It! 28 Allergies & Feeding Issues: Nut Allergy 31 Change Your Views Towards Fitness 33 The Editor'sSmall Business Reviews 38 Busy Mum Journal Prompts
EDITOR'S NOTE
Something I come across every single day as a mother speaking to other mothers, is a total lack of support when it comes to parenting children with allergies and other feeding issues. Whether it be down to judgement, a lack of knowledge from professionals, misunderstanding, (and the list goes on), being the mum of a child with allergies and feeding issues is tough. It's about time I bought to you my small (but mighty) input into the support that those with feeding issues may need- stories from mums who have been there, and those who are still experiencing it. Each story openly talks about the struggles, with lots of suggestions on where you can find support and information you may not know. As always, we have some other stories thrown in to the mix. We have fitness with Ben of course, school readiness with Auntie K, discussing children's mental health, journal prompts AND EVEN MORE! Enjoy, lovelies!
ALICE & THE MUMS | 4
Alice x
PERSONALISED HOMEMADE DOG TREATS ETSY.COM/UK/SHOP/PHOE BESDOGTREATS INSTAGRAM:@PHOEBESDO GTREATS
SCHOOL READINESS Starting school is a huge, momentous occasion in your child’s life. You may be worried that they are not ready for such a big change so here are a few tips to help you and them with the transition. ALICE & THE MUMS | 6
What They Need To Know A lot of parents worry about what their children need to know from an educational point of view. If your child has attended a nursery they will have ensured that your child is ready from that point of view but it will help if they can at least recognise their name. For me, being socially and emotionally ready and being able to do things for themselves is the most important thing. Encourage Independence It may make life easier for you if you dress your child, put their shoes on or help feed them however at school they need to be able to do these things by themselves. Teaching them these skills will really help them and their teachers too. A good idea would be to get them to practice putting on their uniform by themselves and buy uniform which is easy for them to get on and off. They will be given responsibilities at school and so starting to give them some responsibility at home will again, really help. Things like going to find their own clothes, bag or shoes and also taking responsibility for tidying their things away or helping to set and clear the table at meal times. Use of a reward chart can help if they are not so compliant. Emotional Support Talking positively to your child about school and encouraging them to talk about any anxieties they may have is important. Reading books about starting school will help as will letting them know that their teachers
will be on hand if they need help with anything and that it is ok to ask for help. If your child is very anxious about starting school, make sure that their teachers are aware beforehand so that they can have things in place to help. Be Prepared Make sure your child has everything they need in plenty of time before they start school and make sure they understand what the new routine will be like. A practice run of getting up, breakfast and dressed by a certain time will help them (and you) get used to this. Explain who will be taking and collecting them from school and how they are getting there. The school will likely have given you a welcome pack so make sure you have read through it all and get in touch with the school if you have any queries. Keep Your Own Emotions In Check There is no doubt that you will be feeling a bit anxious and sad about your little one starting school but as much as possible keep these feelings away from your child, especially if they are already anxious. Telling your child that you are going to miss them will make them feel bad and if they see you anxious they will think they need to be worried about it to. Talk with your friends or partner when your child is not around instead. Equally, if you can't wait and are really excited about your little one starting school, try to keep a good balance of positivity and not making your child feel unwanted!
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MENTAL HEALTH IN CHILDREN: SCHOOL PRESSURES By Kerry Johnson, Trainee Counsellor Many of us perceive childhood as an era full of play and no care in the world, however there is a lot going on for our young people that we may not recognise. 1 in 10 primary school children aged 5 to 10, and one in seven children aged 11 to 16 have an identifiable mental health condition. In addition, Young Minds report 58% who described their mental health as poor before returning to school, rising to 69% when returning in September. This indicates that while school may be the route cause for some, unhappiness still looms for our ‘carefree’ young people ALICE & THE MUMS | 8
regardless. In my counselling work, children tell me their issues are often disregarded as ‘not real problems,’ particularly during the pandemic. While our young people are assumed to not care about the pandemic and blind to lockdown rules, many young people worry a about their vulnerable relatives, their parents jobs, alongside feeling lonely and in some cases unsafe at home. For our GCSE and A Level children, months spent revising for exams ‘wasted’ both this year and last year, at a time where their futures are beginning to take shape. The pressures on children at every stage
Part 1: Read part 2 in next month's issue!
of school alone are IMMENSE. The level of maths and literacy skills expected from our primary aged children is way beyond anything I can remember, I often struggled to keep up with the lessons myself as a Year 5 LSA, and even had the students explaining many of the literacy and maths terminology to me! I don’t know a single time in my life where I’ve needed to use a ‘fronted adverbial’, and I have an English literature degree. Do our children need this pressure? Teachers tell us this but to sit in a lesson and experience the pressure was eye opening. Some children will appear to cope fine, while internalising that pressure and feel obliged to achieve a certain level in their SATS. And those who very obviously struggle, face constant comparison to their ‘more successful peers.’ All schools deal with this differently, and that’s something to look out for. Some primary schools are very good and make a large effort to not pass on their stress to the students, while some do the opposite.
Some of my clients come from ‘outstanding’ schools, while their mental health very much ‘requires improvement’. While the curriculum appears standard for the whole country, I see children from ‘pushy’ households to deprived households, all suffering with anxiety and low mood! But what can we do about this? You’re a parent, not the education secretary, so you can’t change too much about the expectations placed on your child. However, there are a few techniques you could use to help your child to manage their stress and anxiety. 1. Exercise. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress and this doesn’t need to be Joe Wicks. It can be walking the dog, football, dance mat, any activity your child enjoys that gets their heartrate up. 2. Write or draw. Children often find it helpful to express themselves creatively. Many
counsellors will use play or art therapy to help children and this can be done at home to, through any activity your child enjoys. It could be simple, such as asking your child to draw their classroom or teacher, there could be things that appear in the drawing that indicate their worries around school. 3. Let feelings out. Sometimes it’s ok for your child to hate school, and it’s ok for them to tell you about it. If they can be honest with you it’s a good sign. 4. Do something fun. Sounds obvious, and most teachers will try their best to make their lessons fun, but coming home to do homework can be an exhausting prospect for them, so if they know that before or after homework they can engage in one of their favourite activities, then it makes the concept of homework less depressing. 5. Make homework fun. Some parents come up with fantastic creative ideas such as turning homework into a game. There are loads of ideas you can find online such as The Egg Timer Game, The Flashcards Spelling Game and the Playing Teacher Game – role reversal can be great for our children’s confidence and language skills! 6. Learn ways to relax. If our children are over-stimulated in the day, particularly through technology, then we need to find ways to wind down so everyone gets the sleep needed to function the following day. Calming music, reading, stretching exercises are some of many ways to do this. 7. Laugh. Laughing is in my opinion one of the best cures for low mood. Not only does it boost our mood but gives us an abdominal workout – win-win There is no one size fits all approach. If your child is really struggling, the sooner you can seek more professional help the better before it manifests into a larger problem in adult life. Communication is key and remember you are parents, not mental health experts, and it’s ok to seek help when needed! ALICE & THE MUMS | 9
The Sweet Life of Kay Will Covid Change The World For The Better? By Kayleigh Williams If there’s one thing I’ve taken from this
wanted to do, whether that be going on
pandemic, then it’s that life really is too
more date nights or days out with Harry. We
short and you must make the most of it
can’t be sitting around doing nothing
because everything can change in the
anymore, because what’s the point? Make
blink of a second. I for one have missed all
memories, cherish every second we get
of the things we could normally do, such
together.
as going to the zoo or simply going to a
The virus has definitely brought us closer
restaurant and enjoying a nice meal; all of
as a family, and we’re lucky to now be in a
the normal things that were taken away
position where we own our home and have a
from all of us that we once loved.
garden to play around in when we can’t go
Owen and I have made a deal that we must do all of the things we’ve always
outside our area. During the first lockdown it was very crap, we were NOMADIC
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stuck inside a flat every single day and didn’t have the funds to be able to buy Harry new toys or do arts and crafts everyday. It was tough, but were in a much better position now and are ready for whatever lockdown we hopefully don’t get again. I can’t quite get over the fact we’re having baby number two in august. Harry will be starting nursery and a new chapter in our lives is about to start, so I’m hoping Covid is gone by then. I really want to create memories as a family of 4 because we’ve all missed out on such a huge chunk of our lives due to this pandemic. I really hope covid changes the world. I hope people appreciate more, love more and spread nothing but kindness. I hope people are aware of the dangers of virus and use it to help others, keep healthy and motivated. I
bought a house, we had a miscarriage and
hope the world comes together and joins as
are now growing our rainbow baby. So many
one and we can finally unite. EVERYONE in this
different events happened, but I feel so
world has battled COVID whether they’ve
blessed and nothing but happiness.
caught the virus or not, but I really feel like
If the pandemic has taught you anything,
every single one of us has learnt something
then I hope it teaches you that no matter
from all of this. I hope families grow closer
how tough life may seem, or how daunting
together too.
the current events in the world can be, that
I can’t wait to tell Harry and our baby girl
even the most beautiful and crazy things can
about the pandemic and how the world
also happen. Just because the world feels
stopped for over a year. Being a part of a
like it’s falling apart, doesn’t mean you have
historic event is crazy, these events will be in
to. The world is forever your oyster, and for
our children’s textbooks in years to come just
that I really thank the pandemic for
like the war and the plague. It blows my mind
happening. I couldn’t imagine half the things
every single day. We are the future after all!
that have happened to us, wouldn’t have if
I’ve actually made a few friends from the
the pandemic didn’t happen. And I also
pandemic, however I have lost some. I feel like
really like although we all hated lockdown
everyone has gained and lost something out of
and the rules and the masks, it will forever
this, it could be something so little yet means
hold a special place in our hearts forever.
the world. I’ve found a new business venture, I’ve made so many new friends, we
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HUNTINGTON'S DISEASE BY KATIE HARRIS
Katie shares her story honestly and vulnerably, opening up about her experience awaiting the result of her husband and daughter's test for Huntington's disease. We hear about the process and the effect it had on her as a first time mother, her relationship with her partner and emotionally on herself.
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I knew becoming a mother would be tough. I knew there would be sleepless nights and a lot of dirty nappies to change. I knew about all the things I could prepare myself for. What I wasn't prepared for was how it affected me mentally. The strong mother bear instincts kicking in with every cry or a sudden change in Felicity’s breathing. I didn’t have that sudden rush of love that I hear mothers talking about. I knew I loved her but I felt incredibly over whelmed. That was the emotion I couldn’t shake; it was an emotion that was always there. The happiness, the tiredness, the baby blues all left me over whelmed. When Felicity was 4 months old we found out Huntington’s disease was in the family. We knew a little about it but found out too late that our daughter could have inherited the gene. Angry is not a word I’d use to describe myself but I felt a lot of anger that this was happening. I remember it like it was yesterday calling the GP shaking and crying. All of a sudden there was this situation I had no control over. We had no idea if both my husband and daughter had the faulty gene. What followed was a lot of googling, not being able to see past the worst-case scenario and endless talks with my husband about our future. If we were going to have more children and if we were going to go down the testing route? They won't even consider letting you be tested until you attend counselling sessions so you’re fully informed about Huntington’s and the severity of the disease. So off we travelled into London to see the genetics experts before we could make any form of decision. I found it incredibly difficult not being the patient. The doctor can only talk to the person who is directly affected. So, although I was there for our baby daughter and to support my husband, I had no say. In fact, I was actually told it had nothing to do with me. My husband had to make the decision for himself. Here we were with three scenarios staring us in the face. 1. Get tested it's negative. This is all over. 2. Get tested it's positive. Meaning our daughter has a 50% chance of inheriting the gene, but can't be tested until she is 18. Any future children can be
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conceived through IVF or foetal testing. We both sat there and had to hear how depression and suicide were factors to consider with a positive result. I tried to be positive and be strong, but it was proving to be incredibly difficult. Doctors aren’t there to tell you the happy endings they need to tell you the hard truth – and hard it certainly was! 3. Don't be tested. Live our lives and wait to see if my husband develops symptoms. This was the suggested scenario. I was told it was a bit extreme not to have more babies just to carry on as normal most people do. Mentally I was struggling with this option. I knew myself and knew it would always be playing on my mind. Every time my husband tripped, twitched or forgot something I would be wondering is this it? We had both decided with scenarios 2&3 we wouldn’t have more children we didn’t want one child who could inherit this disease and one we could ensure was okay through IVF. A choice that wasn't easy especially when all the questions started "so when are you having more children?" This is why I can't stress enough to stop asking women when they are having children. There can be a lot of heartache buried underneath the surface for a variety of reasons and maybe just maybe people are happy with one! I had all this guilt going around. We should be enjoying our beautiful baby girl’s first months. Never could I imagine that this early on in our marriage he would be saying things like "put me in a home if it comes to it" So much talking, arguing and crying. It didn’t seem that long ago we were grinning like Cheshire cats on our honeymoon. I know I should have been a rock in all of this, but my husband was mine. All these instincts and anxieties kicked in and I didn’t know how to deal with them. I fell apart. I knew ultimately it had to be his decision, but at the same time he knew I was pinning
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everything on a negative test result. All I could see was the freedom that came if he got the all clear. All I could do was hope for everything to be okay. My husband came to the decision that he needed to be tested, a little bit for my sanity but for our daughter’s future. He wanted to be able to tell our daughter if she was at risk, he knew in a heartbeat he would take the test for her. So, he did it. I remember the day we went to get the result the sky was really blue; it was really warm. I remained upbeat, but I can’t explain the feeling that I had in my gut. We walked into the room waiting for the doctor to open the envelope, it’s something you aren’t allowed to open yourself due to the nature of the disease. It’s a strange feeling. Such a big result for us. Something you want to open in privacy but we were having to go through this with a team of medical professionals. When she told us, it was negative the sigh of relief could be heard, this huge weight lifted from our shoulders. To think that the doctors had really stressed to us not to be tested that many people went on to regret it. Imagine if we had listened, our second daughter Francesca wouldn’t be with us today. I’m not sure where I found the strength to put on a smiley face for my little girl but I did. We went through such an incredibly hard time; we were filled with overwhelming emotions. I sat in baby groups singing all the songs, when inside there was this permanent feeling of worry. If you are going through something similar; if you feel over whelmed with all the emotions you aren’t alone. The emotions you have towards your children is one that can’t be explained. When faced with something huge and ultimately life changing, there is no right or wrong. You have to do what you need to do as a family. You will feel what you feel and you just have to let yourself go through the emotions in order to heal.
BREASTFEEDING AN OLDER CHILD BY NATALIE DANIELS, THE FEEDING WHISPERER As time passes and you find yourself still breastfeeding an older baby or toddler—this may have not have been what you have thought about. For lots of mothers, it is often what other people think that is the problem. As soon as breastfeeding is going well, people seem to start asking when you intend to stop. Coping with pressure from others to stop breastfeeding is not easy, but you will know in your heart what feels right for you and your child.
reassuring to know your child is still getting your milk.
Breastfeeding is important For starters your breastmilk is still nutritious and though you would have introduced your baby to the world of solid foods from around 6 months (26 weeks) of age, your breast milk will remain their main source of nutrients until at least 12 months. After 12 months, breastmilk is still a valuable to your child’s diet, it can provide up to a third of both their daily calories and protein needs after 18 months, as well as being a good source of vitamins and minerals. Toddlers often eat different amounts from day to day so it can be
Breastfeeding offers not only comfort, but security at a time when your child is developing It’s ok to breastfeed beyond the baby stage. The process where a child learns to take nourishment other than their mother’s milk is introduction to solids. It starts when the child starts to try foods in addition to breastmilk, and ends when they finally stops breastfeeding. You may worry that if you don’t start to think about an ending to breastfeeding, your child will ‘breastfeeding forever’. Some mother’s opt to naturally wean off the breast this allow your child to develop at their own pace, giving up breastfeeding according to their own timetable.
Helps with protecting your child from some illness Breastmilk continues to support and boost your child’s immune system. Whilst breastfeeding is no guarantee that a toddler won’t become ill, it can help reduce the severity of any illness. When they are ill, breastmilk may be the only food or drink they can want. Breastfeeding is very comforting to a poorly toddler and can make it easier for you to cope with their illness.
Check out @the_feeding_whisperer on Instagram for more helpful support and info. 18
All children stop breastfeeding eventually, but some finish earlier than others. Instead of choosing a set time to stop breastfeeding, many mothers just continue breastfeeding while it’s working well for them and see how it goes. Not all mothers are comfortable to discuss breastfeeding their babies beyond an age You don’t have to rush to stop breastfeeding, consider whether breastfeeding really does make your life easier or harder. Your child will need your constant attention and care for years yet, whether they are breastfeeding or not. Sometimes needs can be met more simply and easily through breastfeeding than in any other way. For many mothers, shortening feeds or reducing their frequency is enough to make them feel more positive about breastfeeding and confident that it will eventually end. The hardest challenge can be dealing with the opinions of others on your feeding journey Explaining the importance of breastfeeding may seem hard to people who choose a different feeding journey. You can help them feel more at ease by mentioning how breastfeeding makes life easier for you, your child and your family. You might say that you didn’t plan to breastfeed for this long. Comments can be easier to handle when you are happy and confident. As a child develops the ability to wait, some mothers set limits on where and when they can breastfeed, or offer distractions at times when it’s inconvenient. You could nurse before you go out and take a healthy snack and drink to tide your toddler over until you reach the car, home or other suitable place. Selecting your own clothing carefully can help avoid accidental overexposure and choosing a convenient codeword for breastfeeding can make it less obvious ALICE & THE MUMS | 16
when your child asks to breastfeeding when out and about. Setting some gentle limits on how your older baby or toddler breastfeeds is the start of gentle discipline and guiding him into good behaviour. If your toddler tries to breastfeed in unusual or uncomfortable acrobatic positions, you can let them know that it hurts and that if they wants to breastfeeding they needs to sit properly. It’s best to start to set limits on how you will breastfeed before behaviour becomes a problem. If a behaviour you aren’t happy with has become a habit, it may take a little perseverance to change things. But even young toddlers respond to consistent loving guidance, especially if rewarded with breastfeeding and a thank you when they behave appropriately. Some people, even health professionals, who are unfamiliar with breastfeeding an older baby or toddler, may claim that breastfeeding beyond a certain age leads to spoiling, tooth decay, obesity or any number of other consequences! There is no evidence for this. A child’s secure attachment actually leads to independence. There is evidence that tooth decay is dependent on the presence of certain oral bacteria and enamel defects. There is also evidence that obesity is more prevalent in children who are not breastfed. Children all develop at different rates: crawling, walking and talking at different ages. Why should weaning be any different? Children’s needs for sucking and closeness vary. If your child enjoys breastfeeding and it makes them feel good, what a great reason for snuggling up with them. There are also benefits for you when breastfeeding: • Calm an overtired or fussy child. • Soothe you both if your child is hurt or in pain. • Ease frustration and recovery from toddler tantrums. While clingy, demanding behaviour is normal in
young children, some families find that when breastfeeding continues, the ‘terrible two’ isn’t so hard. • You stay calmer and drift back to sleep more easily, thanks to those breastfeeding hormones. • Reduce your risk of developing breast cancer Thinking of stopping? If you are thinking of to ending you feeding breastfeeding journey there are lots of suggestions on how to. One way is the 'don’t offer, don’t refuse’ method can be a helpful approach after the first year. Simply continue meeting your toddler’s need to breastfeed if they are hurt, tired or upset and wait until they asks when they need is less obvious. Offer a healthy snack, drink or a story instead—and see how they reacts. Encouraging your child to help you around the house and get involved in play can provide natural distractions when they doesn’t really need to breastfeed. Setting appropriate limits is the start of gentle discipline and can be a way of saving your breastfeeding relationship. How long your toddler is able to wait will depend on the situation, their age and temperament. Do make sure that you follow through and offer the promised feed later, so they trusts you and is willing to wait. Pregnant breastfeeding mothers sometimes receive conflicting advice about whether they can breastfeeding whilst pregnant. Some continue to breastfeed during pregnancy and may go on to feed both children. This is called tandem nursing. Others stop and find their child stops naturally during the pregnancy. Some mothers find that shortening feeds or partial weaning helps them meet both their own needs and those of their older baby or toddler. However you feel, you need to take care of yourself so you can enjoy your child. Don’t make a decision on a bad day; A break, a nap, a bath, or just something to eat or drink, may be all you need to recharge before deciding what you want to do. You can adjust your approach as situations change, it isn’t easy when you are ready to stop breastfeeding, and your baby isn’t. To help your child move on, try to end breastfeeding gradually and with love while giving them your time and attention in other ways. Finding support Being able to meet other mothers in similar situations can be a great help. In the current climate there are lots of virtual groups welcome mothers at any stage of breastfeeding, so you will often find mothers breastfeeding older babies and toddlers at your local group meeting.
BREASTFEEDING TRAUMA
It's meant to be the most natural thing in the world, so why is it so difficult for some? By Amy Pigott
Breastfeeding.
the cusp of hospital admission. I was also struggling being unwell from issues relating
It’s supposed to be the most natural thing
from my birth and also suffering double
in the world.
mastitis, twice. It has taken me getting pregnant again to understand the severity of
But what happens when it isn't?
my postpartum haemorrhage and just how bad my anaemia was. Add on pre-eclampsia,
I knew immediately that I wanted to
the issues in my birth and all the intervention
breastfeed and I thought I did all the right
and it’s no wonder I could have had issues. As
things and educated myself to ensure I
many of the medical professionals I have
would have success, but despite that I ended
seen this time round have said, of which
up abandoned, alone and crying out for
there have been many, many of these issues
support that wasn't there, only to be left with
can contribute to the production of breast
months of trauma and guilt when I had to
milk.
switch to formula to help my daughter
Without the support and knowledge I
thrive. My story is not an isolated case, this is
needed I turned to formula. I will never regret
the truth behind what happens to a
using formula but it wasn't my choice. It
significant number of women when
helped my daughter thrive but it wasn't my
breastfeeding doesn’t work.
choice. Watching my daughter drink her first
Breastfeeding initially came easy, her
bottle of formula gave me so much joy while
latch was fine and she had no tongue tie but
simultaneously breaking my heart. She very
after being home for a few days we started
quickly became such a contented baby that
to struggle. From troubles with pain, latch
we hadn’t had a glimpse of yet.
she then would not feed off one side entirely.
Knowing what I know now I think things
With some help we did manage to get her
could have been different. Maybe it would
back on and things seemed as though they
never have worked because of all the medical
were moving in the right direction at last.
issues but just maybe, with the right help and
Only they really weren’t. She was losing a lot
support, it could have been something we
of weight, more than the acceptable drop in
could have worked on. Even if it was never
birth weight, and we had medical
meant to be, an explanation and
professionals showing up daily as we sat on
understanding about
ALICE & THE MUMS | 18
why my issues could have contributed to poor breast milk production, then maybe I wouldn’t have beat myself up for so many months or felt like such a failure for not being able to feed my own child. Let me share this with you: I have never felt more of a failure than I did in those moments. Never have I ever felt so alone. Stopping breastfeeding was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. I didn't want to formula feed my child, I didn't want to have to stop
breastfeeding and I didn't want to carry the hurt and burden of that decision for as long as I did. We are the women who wanted to breastfeed so badly and had to stop before we were ready. We are the women who feel failed by the lack of support when things get really tough. We are the women who were abandoned at the moment we needed support the most. We didn't fail, we were failed.
"I have never felt more of a failure than I did in those moments. " ALICE & THE MUMS | 19
My Children & Their Allergies BY
AMY
JOHNSON
Allergies, where do we start? Living with
happen immediately but it does affect the
allergies has been my life. After many years of
gastrointestinal tract and causes vomiting,
illness when I was young and then eventually
diarrhoea and a rash. My eldest has really dry
getting a diagnosis at Great Ormond Street, it
skin, whereas my youngest has really sensitive
comes as no surprise that my boys have similar
skin, and will come up in a rash and sores very
intolerances. It can and does affect our everyday
quickly after a reaction. We have all suffered with
lives. With the boys (aged 4 & 2 ) both having
reflux on occasions. I’ve had to have surgery for
allergies and intolerances, it’s a lot easier to
it and the boys were both managed with
manage as they both have the same foods.
medication for it. Reflux and allergies go hand in
Fortunately their allergies are not severe, in that
hand together.
they don’t need an epi-pen but it can be worrying
Myself and my boys have to avoid gluten,
thinking about the ‘what if’ (especially
wheat and dairy, and my youngest is also egg
Humphrey), if they have something they
free. It can be tricky at times, especially when out
shouldn’t have by mistake. This would result in
for a meal but there is so much out there in the
stomach ache, nausea, a rash and diarrhoea.
supermarkets now which are free from. The
The boys and I both have what are known as
range is so much better now than it used to be
non-ig allergies: allergies which cause a reaction
when I was a child. However I do still have to get
of the immune system. The reaction doesn’t
food shopping from a range of supermarkets as
ALICE & THE MUMS | 20
not all of them have everything. Recipes are so
tolerate milk and food at certain times, he has had
adaptable now, and there are some wonderful cook
to have a nasal gastric feeding tube. Through this
books around now for allergies.
he would have special feed and fluids to make sure
The boys absolutely love baking. We make
that he was getting sufficient calories and nutrients
something yummy every week and it’s normally
as he was unable to keep down his feeds orally. It
something chocolatey. Our favourite at the moment
mean’t that they could monitor the amount going
is Chocolate Fudge Cake which is GF, DF, EF. It’s
in to make sure he maintained his weight.
absolutely delicious as you can see from the photo! Both the boys allergies were diagnosed by skin
It is a relief to know that more is known now about this complex and very real problem. When I
prick testings and blood tests, when they were
was young the doctors really struggled to
around 2 years old. However due to stomach
understand what was causing and triggering my
cramps and upset stomachs, we had excluded the
symptoms. I hope that by recognising the problem
above foods since weaning. My youngest is still
early for our boys, that they will have a happy and
under a consultant trying to work out what other
healthy life and avoid further intervention like I
triggers there are as he still has ongoing symptoms.
have experienced.
Humphrey has had several hospital admissions for various problems. Due to his inability to
To see more of our journey follow @mummysheartnannyhead or Facebook on Instagram and visit www.mummysheartnannyshead.co.uk ALICE & THE MUMS | 21
CMPA DIAGNOSIS BY AMANDA BARKER Right from the start Aiden struggled to feed, he was tongue tied, diagnosed with reflux and then colic but it wasn’t getting easier. He was taking such small amounts at feeds, he would scream and cry and show all the symptoms of being hungry but then would scream and cry during the feed, sometimes even gagging. He would squirm and try to spit the bottle out and as time went on and he got bigger and stronger it just got worse and the amount he drank reduced. He was never settled between feeds and his skin was sore and red and the moisturiser and bath creams recommneded didn’t seem to be helping. Aiden’s nappies were also nothing like I’d seen before and then we started to notice blood too. After 3 very long months and countless discussions with the GP and the Health Visitor we were told that AIden was failing to thrive and that we would be referred to a dietician and would need weekly weigh ins. The dietician first introduced us to Cows Milk Protein Allergy. We hadn't known anyone in the family or our close circle of friends to have a child allergic to milk before and the idea seemed daunting, but we were advised there were alternatives available and we would be offered support and advice when it came to weaning. We changed the formula and over the next few days nothing changed, in fact things were getting worse. We spoke to the dietician and were advised that it can take some time for old formula to leave a babies system and to carry on. We did. Two more ALICE & THE MUMS | 22
days passed and Aiden stoppped
was the same but then I saw the
feeding all together. We had no
one and only difference. The new
choice and headed to A&E. The
brand contained corn startch. The
doctors prescribed a stronger
original brand didn’t. My guess
reflux medication as well as
was confirmed. Aiden was
another alternative formula. It was
diagnosed with both CMPA as
a slow few days but things finally
well as a corn allergy and an oral
started to improve. In fact after a
aversion. I felt so many emotions;
week he was much more content
guilt, relief, fear but there was also
between feeds and his skin began
finally some hope.
to clear up for the first time ever. After a month we were all
We are now two years on and although Aiden’s allergies are all
feeling more settled and then
still present we can now manange
things started to head south
them with medication and diet
again. I felt broken. The symptoms
keeping him symptom free. It was
had all just returned overnight
a long road to diagnosis and at
and in full force, and then in a
times it felt like we was hurting
middle of the night like an
more than helping but I’m glad I
epiphany it came to me. The
kept chasing help. As a Mum you
medication from our local
can feel you should know it all but
pharmacy was a different brand;
sometimes we don’t and that’s ok!
the same drug but a different brand. Aiden stopped feeding again. Back to A&E we
"THE SYMPTOMS HAD ALL JUST RETURNED OVERNIGHT AND IN FULL FORCE..." went. Here the doctors agreed with GP, medication of different brands shouldn’t make a difference. No one could offer an alternative explanation though. I began my own research. I found online a list of all the ingredients for both brands of medication and I began to compare the two. Most of it was medical language I didn’t really understand and most of it
ALICE & THE MUMS | 23
My Experiences with Allergies and Feeding BY CHARLOTTE GARBUTT As a new mum I had heard a lot about how mothers
been covered in a dry red rash for weeks, we had
instinctively knew when something was wrong with
just assumed it was dry skin or eczema. She had
their baby. This was not my experience and I felt
been crying a lot recently but babies do that. She
completely ashamed that my baby was so unwell
did struggle a lot with gas and stomach pain, I
and I hadn't even noticed.
thought that was fairly normal, colic or reflux
We had been out for coffee when I changed my
perhaps? The news that it was my diet and my
two month olds nappy and spotted blood around her
breast milk that was harming her was really
poop. She was breastfed at this point so it was very
upsetting. Like any new parent I was trying my
easy to see the bright red stain. I kept myself calm
hardest to do my best for her and breastfeeding was
but told my husband that we needed to go to A&E
a huge part of that.
straight away. We were quickly seen and after a very short chat
I was given a leaflet about foods to avoid eating, including all dairy and details about which formulas
with a pediatrician she diagnosed my baby with
to try if I decided to stop breastfeeding. I sobbed all
CMPA (Cows Milk Protein Allergy). Dorothy had
the way home and read what I could
ALICE & THE MUMS | 24
find online. Over the next few months we had lots of check ups and were able to calm Dorothy's dry skin and eventually the crying. It took longer than expected for her to recover, so after going through more possible allergens with our doctor we decided that she was likely allergic to egg but soya and nuts were also possibilities. Fed up of cutting something out and waiting two weeks for it to clear from my breast milk to watch out for any change in symptoms, I ended up cutting out everything… not a good combination for a breastfeeding mother who is up all night. My new diet consisted of coffee, carbs and vegetables. It certainly wasn’t easy. I became obsessive with food labels, but I managed to stay off dairy and eggs for the next eight months until Dorothy was weaned. Luckily for us, Dorothy loved her food. I had to do a lot of my own research to make sure that she was getting the fats, proteins and omega three that she would have been missing from dairy and eggs. ‘The Dairy Free Mum’ and ‘Children's Dietitian’ on instagram were amazing resources and just knowing that we weren’t on our own was a huge help. During the weaning process we had been seeing an allergy specialist at the local hospital about
trying to reintroduce first dairy and then eggs. The specialist reminded me again and again that unless Dorothy ingested some small form of dairy and egg, that she wouldn’t be able to build up a tolerance. However, the idea of giving Dorothy something that I felt sure would cause her harm was awful. There had been a few times where I had eaten dairy whilst breastfeeding and within 24 hours there would be a small amount of blood in her nappy again. When it came to giving Dorothy actual dairy it really scared me. She is almost one and a half years old now. It’s been a long process, and it’s still very much ongoing. We have the occasional bout of allergy related diarrhea and even blisters on her lips from trying scrambled eggs! But otherwise she is doing really well. She has progressed quite far on the milk and egg ladders - tools to help explain how to reintroduce an allergen. If I can pass on any advice to parents who have just found out their baby has an allergen, it would be to seek help, whether through your doctor or certified nutritionists, make sure that you and baby are still getting all the good fats and proteins that your body needs to be healthy. And try to keep your cool when someone doesn’t understand the difference between dairy free and lactose free...
ALICE & THE MUMS | 25
BY KAREN LEGGE
Don't Jinx It! Imagine the scenario. You’ve survived a whole year of parenting. You’ve got through those major milestones. You’ve battled through feeding, weaning, dressing, cleaning and have even come out the other side of sleep regressions. However, unlike a work situation there’s no one performance managing you. There’s no 360 feedback on your most challenging role to date. There are no targets set or bonuses allotted. So you allow yourself a little pat on the back. You deserve to celebrate how you have grown from a slightly on-edge, deer-in-headlights new mum to this more relaxed version of motherhood. As your little person retrieves meltysticks off the coffee shop floor without you diving for the Milton wipes (let’s face it, you’ve a responsibility for developing their immune systems - 9 second rule) you utter the words “yep, he’s finally sleeping through.” You witness the horrified look from your mum mate as she clutches the sofa arm in holy terror. “Don’t jinx it!” she whispers, as if sleepless-nights-byassociation are now guaranteed. Mum Voodoo-Whoodoo Why is it this superstitious approach to success blights our enjoyment? You ALICE & THE MUMS | 26
celebrate a tiny win in your motherhood journey and then feel duty-bound to follow it up with a speedy and heartfelt “but I don’t want to jinx it!” It’s like verbalising your achievements; bringing them in to consciousness, is like a ringing bell of certain doom for any further positivity. I’ve many superstitions in life. I won’t walk underneath a ladder. New shoes (and I’m a prolific shoe buyer) would never be placed on the table. There’s no way I could spot a magpie without saluting it and wishing it a good morning. But like some crazed voodoo Mum-priestess, the chants of ‘don’t jinx it’ became a ritual for me in every area of parenting… “He’s a Great Eater!” Nooooo! You only went and said it aloud! As my little man gummed a tender-stem of broccoli in to oblivion, I
looked on with the swell and smug pride that could only come from a once fussyeater. There’s no way this little man would refuse a sprout and be forced to sit at the table for three hours in a spinach-eating stand-off. From carrots to caulis, he ate it all. Until the utterance of those words: ‘he’s a great eater.’ I now sit at the dining table, digging deep to pull out a strategy that gets my carefully prepared menu down him. “Just three more mouthfuls… eat the chicken and we’re done… you’ve got until the sand-timer runs out to try some rice… if you eat the broccoli you can have an ice-lolly… JUST GET OUT FROM UNDER THE TABLE… DO NOT pour your water over your cod!” I only went and jinxed it. You can find me most days at 5:30pm, weeping over a plate of congealed Spag Bol or trying desperately not to polish off the Turkey Kiev and alpha-bites he’s left, blowing my calorie count out the water! “We’re Past the Terrible Twos” But all is not lost: at least we are over the meltdowns! That sense of empathy and the sympathetic look to another mother as you watch their child lose their tiny mind having not been allowed to lick the dustbin or some other injustice. You channel them all the positive thoughts you can. You try to mind-read “it will get easier” as they avoid eye contact with everyone around, burning up with the shame of this banshee child they’re trying to shoe-horn back into the car. We’ve all been there. In less sociallydistanced times you would go and offer a hand. Oh, the tales I could tell of being whacked around the head with a minimilk for disallowing the aforementioned lolly to be taken in to the soft-play arena.
Strawberry stickiness is not a look in black, straight hair. But we’re past the tantrum stage. Oops – I did it again. Jinxed it! I curse myself as my once-jubilant, congratulatory self is resigned to the wrestling match that is trying to get a pre-schooler in to clothes before 8:30am and more importantly before they’ve watched the end of Bing’s musical statues for the 83rd time. When will I learn? High-Jinx The answer to this is never. Superstition is a strange one. Did I really have a boy because a posse of four magpies chose my office to loiter outside? I’ve broken many a mirror and I’ve yet to suffer seven years of bad luck. But stages of child development are ever-changing. It has a tendency to keep you on your toes in its very nature. As your little person establishes their will, discovers control and begins to explore relationships and their place in the world, there will always be challenge. So my recommendation is, when you experience a win – embrace it! Celebrate it! Don’t fear the Mum Voodoo! Maybe get a bottle of wine or some chocolate in, just in case you’ve jinxed it though…
To read more about Karen and her parenting journey read below! Instagram: @theunyoungmum Facebook: @theunyoungmum Blog: https://theunyoungmum.com
ALICE & THE MUMS | 27
NUT ALLERGY BY JESSICA LAYZELL JESSICA EXPLAINS TO US THE CIRCUMSTANCES AROUND HER SON THOMAS' ALLERGIC REACTION TO NUTS, HOW HE DID NOT REACT THE FIRST TIME HAVING THEM, WHAT SHE MUST
BE WARY OF NOW
AND WHERE SHE SEEKS SUPPORT.
Unfortunately, my experience with allergies in
Accordingly, I wanted to make sure before we
children started before motherhood. My
boarded a plane that Thomas was fine with
nephew experienced anaphylactic shock a
nuts. A fortnight before a holiday when
number of times from milk and an airborne
Thomas was 9 months, I gave him peanut
nut allergy. This meant that we were more
butter. He had no adverse reaction and I was
aware of allergies than other first time
so relieved. We went away with no issues and
parents.
had a lovely time. Thankfully I didn’t give him
When it came to my baby Thomas, I had no issues with my pregnancy and was able to
any nuts whilst we were away. When we got home, gave him peanut
breast-feed. Weaning went well, we started at
butter on toast. It was exactly the same jar,
5/6 months. He has a large appetite and just
and there were no differences to before. He
loves food, we felt very fortunate that meal
ate it all. But as I wiped his face and hands, a
times were something to look forward to.
couple of red, bite type lumps appeared around his mouth and his cheeks.
Thomas’ Allergic reaction
Within minutes the lumps multiplied covering his face and his eyes began to swell.
As my nephew’s nut allergy is airborne, it is very dangerous for him to be on a flight. ALICE & THE MUMS | 28
He got very distressed and his cry was raspy. We had called 111 but he continued to
deteriorate so we made our way to the hospital. Thomas experienced a moderate allergic reaction. Over an 8 hour period, the lumps spread over his entire body. The hospital gave him anti-histamine and steroids. He eventually improved and was discharged.
Allergies – Three Tastes Test
"IT CAN TAKE THREE EATS OF AN ALLERGEN FOR THE BODY TO DEVELOP ANTIBODIES AND CREATE AN ALLERGY." As Thomas reacted on the second eating with a moderate reaction it is considered that
The specialist Registrar told us that it can
if he were to have nuts again it is likely to be
take three eats of an allergen for the body to
anaphylactic, as the reaction can intensify. We
develop antibodies and create an allergy.
now carry anti-histamine and two adrenaline
Practically, what this means is that you
pens at all times.
have to give a baby something three/four times before you can be sure they are not allergic to it. I was so shocked by this; I had
Going Forwards
read up on weaning, was not naïve to allergies and yet I had never heard of this.
Due to the potential severity of reaction,
ALICE & THE MUMS | 29
Thomas cannot eat anything which even ‘May Contain’ nuts. In some ways, nuts are relatively easy to
as we have previously been turned away because they cannot cater for him. I have sought solace in a few social media
remove. They generally aren’t cooked into
accounts advising on nut free products:
everyday food like other allergens. However
TheNutFreeLivingFoodGuide and
lots of supermarkets and brands have
Rosiebrandreth both offer helpful guidance
included ‘May Contain Nuts’ on all their
and support.
packaging. This means that a many pre-
Hopefully with allergies becoming more
packaged foods are off limits. This includes
common, companies will become more aware
ready meals, breakfast cereals, bread, cakes,
and be less likely to protectively brand their
biscuits, chocolate and desserts. Surprisingly
packaging ‘May Contain’ when it is safe. And
even some cooked meats and a lot of the
restaurants, with a bit more education on
main toddler food brands aren’t suitable.
allergies and food preparation should be able
We call restaurants and cafes before going
ALICE & THE MUMS | 30
to make it safe for everyone.
CHANGE YOUR VIEWS TOWARDS FITNESS BY BEN SIMPKINS, LONDON FITNESS MAMAS
You will have seen countless celebs “bounce back” weeks after giving birth. Seemingly returning to their pre pregnancy body without having to do any work whatsoever. There are a few people who have this luxury, but this is not the story for 95% of mamas out there. The body doesn’t just snap back, it takes time, it needs nurturing and love to flourish. There are also changes that may be long term to your body now and it takes acceptance of your bodies new role as a mama. Below are a few issues we commonly come across and what you need to know about each part. The issue we see time and time again is the comparison between celebs who have a very different environment than the women we work with. Not everyone can afford a live-in nanny, a chef, a cleaner, a fitness coach, a nutritionist, a personal assistant etc, the list goes on. You cannot compare your life to someone else as no one else is going through what you are right now. No one else will have your birth story, no one else has your genetics, no one else has your thoughts. Not everyone can afford the support and those jobs I listed above normally fall one one person, YOU. There is only so much that you can do but all too often the postpartum mama feels that they need to be a superhero. And that they need to perfectly complete every task while trying to keep a small human alive. It is not possible to do it all and putting that extra pressure on yourself will only hinder you. It is ok to allow your body the time it needs to rest, recover and function at the level it needs to be at. Look after your body and it will look after you. We see mamas compare themselves to magazine covers where the image will have been touched up in some form. Plus they are there
ALICE & THE MUMS | 31
to literally to pose for a small number of images, it's not their whole day. Instagram is getting better but it is way too easy to start scrolling throughout the day. Whether it be where you’re feeding or at nap time and to fall into the trap of comparison between what you see on Instagram and your current situation. It is so important not to compare someone's highlight reel to your blooper reel. Just step back and think about when you take photos, how many attempts do you take to get one you like? It isn’t just a quick single snap and then you have the perfect angle, with the perfect lighting, with no screwed up facial expressions and we’re not even going to mention the Peppa Pig in the corner you didn’t notice. Social media posts take time- do not compare how you are doing with how someone else is looking like they are doing. Stay positive, stay focused and keep looking after yourself. If social media is making you feel down, maybe take a 30 day break from that account. There is the expectation that to get results you have to commit to an hour of hardcore workouts. You have to be dripping in sweat and barely able to stand at the end of it otherwise it’s been a complete waste of time. Sweat is just fat crying, have you heard that? It’s a load of crap. Yes there is a time and place for a tough conditioning class. But postpartum life isn’t really one of those unless you are in a very very small minority. For most mamas keeping themselves active and moving, improving their mobility and strength with short bouts of exercise is what they need. All too often we hear that people can’t fit workouts in as they believe they need a full 60 minutes. ALICE & THE MUMS | 32
Trying to schedule in 60 minutes at a time around your little ones schedule and all the other tasks I mentioned in point 1, is just a nightmare. So let’s start looking at a different way of keeping fit. Something is better than nothing. Get active wherever you can. Let’s say you planned to do a 45 minute training session at nap time, but it took an extra 30 minutes for your little one to go down. Rather than thinking “ oh I will do it tomorrow”, get those 15 minutes in. It is 15 minutes more than you would have done and 15 minutes of building your body. Because chances are something else will pop up tomorrow and then you would have gone 2 days without doing exercise. Do small bursts if you have to. I have worked with clients making a variety of 2x5 minute rounds that can be squeezed in anywhere throughout the day. Obviously the more you can do the better but just getting one round in is going to help move you forward. Maybe you can do nap time in the buggy instead? Go for a walk around the park instead of trying to get them to sleep in their cot. Look at little ways you can boost your daily movements. Focus on what you can control, focus on where you can work, keep doing little bits. Finally diets, what’s the best postpartum diet for getting rid of the baby weight (we hear this so much!!). The answer, there isn’t one. But what you can do is focus on nourishing your body. It helps you function, it will help with your recovery, it gives you energy, it nourishes your baby when you feed them. It will also most likely help you get the results you want with your body.
"GIVE YOUR BODY WHAT IT NEEDS TO FLOURISH AND IT WILL REPAY YOU." The issue is that it isn’t easy to keep up with constantly making highly nutritious meals. So try to find a number of meals that you can batch cook, store and use up throughout the week over and over again. Look for meals that are high in proteins, have lots of vegetables, some form of fermented food (things like pickles, jalapenos, live yoghurt, kimchi) and hydrate!! Give your body what it needs to flourish and it will repay you, and again, something is better than nothing. If you go off track for a meal or 2 that's cool, it happens. You don’t need to wait until the following Monday to start again, just get back at it the next time you need to eat. Please stop adding more pressure on yourselves by thinking you need to train and eat like a fitness model. While needing to look like a magazine cover model. It is hard enough just parenting let alone trying to keep up with an unrealistic lifestyle. Yes it is great to want to achieve that and there is nothing wrong with aiming for that body, but just don’t expect it 6 weeks after giving birth. It took 9 months to grow, you most likely won’t go back to where you were in pre pregnancy in 6 weeks. Treat your body with respect, it has done the most amazing job throughout your pregnancy and it needs you to take care of it now. Do what you can and keep remembering it’s all or something.
The Editor's Small Business Reviews
Here at Alice & The Mums, we love supporting small businesses and giving them a platform to be seen and heard. I've reviewed 3 small businesses for you that I discovered on Instagram and am LOVING right now. They are all totally unique, and run by some fabulous creative and genuinely lovely women. Disclaimer: For transparency, these items were gifted. However, I have chosen these three out of many businesses that approached me and would never advertise something I didn't wholly love!
Artisign & Co. Artisign & Co. is a small business that create bespoke wood rounds, appropriate for internal and external use. First of all, I was really impressed that the wood rounds were personalised, and I loved the designs on the Etsy store, particularly the name wood round that I think would look gorgeous on any front door of a family home. My wood round was a complete surprise. The lovely Charlotte, designer and maker of Artisign & Co., knew how much I love cow print. When my item arrived and had cow print across it I was so delighted and really felt like the wood round had thought and love going into it. I love the rustic feel, and the gorgeous bow on top gives it a cute touch. I'll be hanging my wood round above my dressing table. If you're looking for a unique gift idea, maybe for new parents with their baby's name, a friend or family member's birthday, a Mother's Day present, then I recommend these high quality plaques with excellent customer service too! The personalisation made my experience as a customer that bit more special, and I will certainly be purchasing a family name wood round for our home very soon.
ALICE & THE MUMS | 34
To find out more, check out Artisign & Co.'s Instagram and Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Artisignandco https://www.instagram.com/artisignandco/
Artisan Annie I’m not a blingy, sparkly jewellery sort of girl. I’ve always preferred chunky, junk jewellery and vintage pieces, and Annie’s collection offers exactly that to me- classic, handmade and utterly gorgeous items. Trying on my personalised initial bracelet first of all, I immediately knew I needed another in a different colour. I was instantly reminded of wooden beaded bracelets I wore as a teenager and this felt like a grown up, and completely elegant upgrade. At just £9 and available in 5 different colours, this piece would be a lovely gift for anyone wanting to buy something personal and pretty for a decent price. The next item I tried on was the polymer clay pendant necklace and my thoughts immediately turned to what tops this was going to match up beautifully with. The gold leaf detail gives it an extra touch, making it a staple day to night wardrobe item. Lastly, I was blown away by the gorgeous stainless steel earrings. My instant thoughts were how adorable they were and how thoughtful they would be as a gift to any mother, representing their little ones. They are so unique, meaningful and the item that stands out to me the most on the Etsy store. Later I was amazed to discover how vast and unique Annie’s Etsy store is. I had a browse and the variety of pieces on offer (and ones now firmly added to my mental wish list) were lovely, delicate, and importantly mum-friendly.
About The Owner I'm Annabel, maker and designer of Artisan Annie Jewellery Designs in the Surrey Hills. Mum of two gorgeously crazy IVF kids, Max 5 and India 1 & 3/4 and we're always busy at a 100 miles an hour enjoying life! I'm a highly qualified Beauty Therapist and Bio Sculpture technician, with 18 years experience, but in this very testing time of Covid I've been unable to open my salon. I had think fast! And channel my inner maker and crafter to be able to provide for my little family. In July last year Artisan Annie Jewellery Designs was born out of my love of crafting. Lockdown has given me the time to be at home with the children, and allowed me to pursue my love of making lovely things. At Artisan Annie I design and handcraft beautiful pieces of handmade jewellery using highly pigmented Clay. A small business based in the beautiful village of Chiddingfold, Surrey. I create unique designs often encorporating rich Gold Leaf detailing with a high shine glazed finish.
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/artisanannieshop
ALICE & THE MUMS | 35
Touch of The Universe Shhh... I’m manifesting... So magic isn’t real, but manifesting is the next best thing. It’s the art of visualising what you aspire to and making that your reality through the power of a positive mindset. Touch of the Universe offer a manifestation kit. The kit features a manifestation card to write down your affirmation, along with 10 mini healing crystals. I’ve been keeping my postcard in my diary in my handbag and pulling it out as a little reminder of my ultimate dream and what I’m asking the universe for. Plus- it’s only £6.50!!! I think this is perfect for any mums who maybe feel lost or who want an excuse to spend more time on them. If you need to refocus what you are putting your energy into or have a dream you want to work towards, manifest it. Since using my kit I feel more driven, positive and have ensured I’m taking time out of my day to look after me and what I want, something that is so important as a mum. Touch of the Universe also have a vast collection of gorgeous healing crystal necklaces on the Etsy store for you to have a browse of. Happy manifesting mummies!
Top Tips For Manifestation! Find that quiet time (I know it might seem impossible) even if it is just 5 mins! Be specific with your affirmation, write them as if they have already happened ‘I am so grateful for my new car’ Trust, trust, trust – hold your mini crystals in your palm, take three deep breaths and trust the universe.
About The Owner I have been drawn to and working with healing crystals since I was young and experienced first-hand the power of manifestation. I was able to turn my dreams into a reality through visualisations and the power of thoughts! This birthed my small online Etsy store – Touch Of The Universe. I wanted to create products that promote love, light, and positivity through natural elements. I sell mini manifestation kits and healing crystal necklaces. Life can get extremely busy, especially for mothers, and I feel it is important to have that ‘me time’ and manifest some personal goals! I designed two quirky manifestation cards to journal all your goals and paired 10 mini healing crystals to amplify your positive energy. If you needed a sign, this is it, manifest your dreams! www.etsy.com/shop/touchoftheuniverse ALICE & THE MUMS | 36
Busy Mum Journal Prompts Well the colouring went down a treat in last issue, so we are back with some mummy mindfulness again, this time with some simple journal prompts!
Monday
Tuesday
What was the best part of your day and why?
Wednesday
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the next 30 days?
I wish I was better at...
Thursday
What relationship would you most like to improve and work on and why?
Friday
I feel most relaxed when... Can I do that this week or next?
I feel most stressed when... How can I stop feeling this way?
Sunday
Saturday
What quality do you most value in yourself as a mother?